Johannesburg - Graca Machel, the wife of ailing former president Nelson Mandela on Saturday said she drew strength from messages of support from United States president Barack Obama and his family.
In a statement, Machel said she spoke to the Obamas on the telephone.
“Having taken the time to telephone me to express their solidarity and meet our children, they have added a touch of personal warmth that is characteristic of the Obama family,” she said.
“I am humbled by their comfort and messages of strength and inspiration which I have already conveyed to Madiba.”
Obama met privately with members of the Mandela family at the Nelson Mandela Centre for Memory shortly after concluding bilateral talks with President Jacob Zuma.
Machel wished the Obama's - who were accompanied by their two daughters - an enjoyable visit to South Africa. - Sapa