Dr. Nelson Mandela turns 95 in hospital, South Africa celebrates his birthday

The health of Nelson Mandela was said to be improving today as the former president celebrates his 95th birthday.

Mandela has been receiving treatment for a recurring lung infection since June 8 and there were fears that he was close to death.

But in an interview with Sky, Mandela's daughter Zindzi said her father was gaining strength and may be home "anytime soon". More photos after the cut...

While Mandela remains hospitalized, South Africans take the opportunity to honor the man who symbolized the anti-apartheid movement. Lots of people turning up at the hospital in Pretoria to wish him happy birthday.

The United Nations has also declared the former president's birthday Nelson Mandela International Day as a way of recognizing the Nobel Peace Prize winner's contribution to reconciliation.

We wish him happy birthday and a quick recovery!

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