Pretoria -
President Jacob Zuma arrived at the Medi-Clinic Heart Hospital in Pretoria on Thursday morning, to visit former president Nelson Mandela on his 95th birthday.
Zuma arrived around 10.45am at the Park Street entrance and walked through the hospital's parking lot, where he greeted a few people, to the Celliers Street entrance.
A military brass band was positioned there and played the national anthem before a large crowd which had gathered to wish Mandela well on his birthday.
The band played Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika three times and throngs of well-wishers enthusiastically sang along.
Presidency spokesman Mac Maharaj said in a statement earlier that Mandela's health was steadily improving.
Thursday marked Mandela's 41st day in the hospital, where he is being treated for a recurring lung infection.
Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula was also at the hospital, and held a birthday card for Mandela.
Soon after the singing, Zuma, who was wearing a red tie, went inside the hospital.
Tshwane mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa was expected to visit the hospital later on Thursday. - Sapa