JOHANNESBURG - Former South African President Nelson Mandela’s condition continues to improve, Mandela’s ex-wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela said on Friday.

Her remarks followed an announcement by President Jacob Zuma on Thursday that Mandela’s condition had improved, but he was still in a critical condition.

Mandela’s family was happy that the former statesman was showing a “great improvement” in his health compared to a few days ago, Winnie said in Soweto in southeastern Johannesburg, according to the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC).

Winnie was speaking at a house which Mandela stayed before he was sent to prison.

“I’m not a doctor, but I can say that from what he was a few days ago there is great improvement,” Winnie said.

Friday is Mandela’s 21st day in hospital where he is receiving treatment for a lung infection. That is one of his longest hospital stay since December.

An official update on Mandela’s health is expected to be issued later Friday after Zuma visits Mandela. Mandela’s eldest daughter Makaziwe told SABC on Thursday that when they spoke to Mandela, he was trying to open his eyes. She said Mandela could also feel when family members touched him. (Xinhua)