Mandela ‘steadily improving’ on 95th birthday

July 18, 2013 at 9:24a.m.

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — South Africa celebrated Nelson Mandela’s 95th birthday with acts of charity today, a milestone capped by news that the former president’s health was improving after fears that he was close to death during ongoing hospital treatment. “He continues to respond positively to treatment and we are encouraged by the progress he is making,” President Jacob Zuma said after visiting Mandela. A statement from Zuma’s office said Mandela was steadily improving.