South African Presidency Says Nelson Mandela Making Progress

Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa, has been reported to be slightly better after being admitted in hospital and is now in good spirits, according to the office of President Jacob Zuma.

Mandela was admitted in hospital just before midnight March 27, due to recurrence of a lung infection.

"We appeal to the people of South Africa and the world to pray for our beloved Madiba and his family and to keep them in their thoughts. We have full confidence in the medical team and know that they will do everything possible to ensure recovery," said President Zuma in an earlier statement released Thursday.

Mandela is usually referred to by his clan name "Madiba".                                       

Zuma's statement gave no insights into either Mandela's condition or his discharge from the hospital.

"Of course I have been saying to people, you should bear in mind Madiba is no longer that young and if he goes for check-ups every now and again, I don't think people must be alarmed about it. I would like to really say the country must not panic," Mr. Zuma told The BBC.

Mandela, South Africa's first black president and anti-apartheid hero, first contracted tuberculosis while he was imprisoned on the Robben Island during the 80s. This is the fourth time that he has been admitted in hospital in a little over two years.

In December last year, Mandela was admitted in hospital for lung infection and after, a surgery to remove gallstones, Reuters reported.

Well-wishers from around the world have been praying for Mandela's health.

"When you think of a single individual that embodies the kind of leadership qualities that I think we all aspire to, the first name that comes up is Nelson Mandela. And so we wish him all the very best," said U.S. President Barak Obama, according to Reuters.