Mandela, 94, has been in
serious but stable condition since being rushed to a Pretoria hospital
with a recurring lung infection, the president's office has said. On
Wednesday, Zuma signaled some optimism.
"I am happy to report
that Madiba is responding better to treatment from this morning," Zuma
told Parliament ahead of a budget address, using the clan name by which
Mandela is widely referred to in South Africa. "We are very happy with
the progress that he is now making, following a difficult last few days.
"We appreciate the
messages of support from all over the world. ... We urge South Africans
and the international community to continue to keep President Mandela
and the medical team in their thoughts and prayers."
Family members also visited Mandela in the hospital Wednesday.
In a written statement,
Mandela's grandson Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandela said they had been touched
and heartened by the outpouring of public prayers and good will during
"a difficult period for the Mandela family."
"We are fully cognizant
of the fact that millions of people in the country and around the world
regard Madiba as their parent and therefore are as much concerned about
his well-being as we are," he said.
The family is satisfied
with the care Mandela is receiving and shares everyone's hope for his
recovery, he said. The grandson also thanked the doctors, government and
ruling African National Congress for their support.
As Mandela lay in the
hospital, children left hand-drawn "get well" cards and message outside
his Johannesburg home, reflecting the affection with which the nation
regards its former president.
For more stories follow http://edition.cnn.com/2013/06/10/world/africa/south-africa-mandela for more on Mandela
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