Graça moved by ‘love for Madiba’

FORMER President Nelson Mandela’s wife Graça Machel yesterday thanked everyone who had sent messages of support for the ailing icon.

“So much love and generosity from South Africans, Africans across the continent, and thousands more from across the world, have come our way to lighten the burden of anxiety, bringing us love, comfort and hope,” Machel said in a statement.

“We have felt the closeness of the world and the deepest meaning of strength and peace.”

Machel said the family’s gratitude was difficult to express. “But the love and peace we feel gives yet more life to the simple thank you.”

Mandela, 94, was spending his 10th day in hospital yest He was admitted in the early hours of June 8 with a recurring lung infection. The presidency said he was in a “serious

President Jacob Zuma told a Youth Day celebration on Sunday in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, that Mandela’s health had shown improvement despite him still being in a serious condition.

“Over the last two days, although [his condition] remains serious, his doctors have stated that his improvement has been sustained,” Zuma said.

Zuma, accompanied by ANC treasurer-general Zweli Mkhize, visited Mandela on Thursday.

Members of the Mandela family visited the ailing icon on Father’s Day.

Mandela’s former wife and ANC MP Winnie MadikizelaMandela, daughter Zenani Mandela-Dlamini and Mandela’s granddaughter Zaziwe were at the hospital on Sunday. — Sapa

but

stable”

condition.