ROUGH CUT (NO REPORTER NARRATION)<br/> <br />Former South African President Nelson Mandela celebrated his 95th birthday on Thursday (July18).<br/> <br />Well-wishers and media were gathering early outside the hospital where he's undergoing treatment for a lung infection.<br/> <br />The anti-apartheid icon has been in hospital since June 8th.<br/> <br />The presidency issued a statement on Thursday (July 18) saying that Mandela's doctors had confirmed that his health was steadily improving.<br/> <br />On the eve of Mandel's birthday old friend Mac Maharaj said: "Nelson Mandela, I would like to take this opportunity to wish him everything of the best on his 95th birthday. Get well. Get better. We need you and stay young forever at heart."<br/> <br />The mother of former president Thabo Mbeki, Epainette Mbeki, said: "I am wishing you a happy birthday and many more returns."<br/> <br />July 18th was declared Nelson Mandela International Day by the United Nations in 2009 to encourage people worldwide to carry out 67 minute
