Nelson Mandela celebrates his 91st birthday

Mr Mandela blows out the candles on his birthday cake

July 18, 2009 – Nelson Mandela began his 91st birthday celebrations today at his home in Johannesburg with a visit from President Jacob Zuma and the whole executive of the African National Congress (ANC).

The former president joined the group of more than 90 well-wishers – which included former Zambian President, Kenneth Kaunda – in a special marquee erected in the garden of Mr Mandela’s Houghton home.

Escorted by President Jacob Zuma, his wife Graça Machel, his former wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, and his grandson, Nkosi Mandla Zwelivelile Mandela, he received a standing ovation from the politicians who sang “Happy Birthday” in English and in Xhosa. As he took his seat on a sofa the group also sang “For he’s a jolly good fellow” and a freedom song which says “Nelson Mandela – there is no one like you.”

After a speech by Nkosi Zwelivelile, and having had his praises sung by a traditional imbongi (praise singer) Mr Mandela listened to a speech by President Zuma who extolled his virtues as a political activist, freedom fighter, prisoner, president and pensioner.

President Zuma said it was “a special privilege given to us by our ancestors” and “a blessing from God” that Mr Mandela was still with us at his age.

“Sit at home as a pensioner and have no worries that the ANC is in good hands,” President Zuma said. “We will follow your example forever.”

Mr Mandela was presented with a poster signed by all the members of the ANC’s National Executive Committee as well as a framed photograph of himself in combat gear.

He blew out the ten gold candles on his cake in the ANC colours of black green and gold and shaped in the numbers 91 which had the words “Long live Madiba” in chocolate icing below it.

Mr Mandela ate a piece of cake presented by his eight-year-old great grandson, Ziyanda Manaway. He then addressed the group in Xhosa thanking them for the birthday visit.

“The thing that makes me very happy is the presence of the president and the leaders of this country,” he said. “I thank you very much, I am truly grateful.”

After the ANC leaders left for various Mandela Day community activities, Mr Mandela joined his family for a private birthday lunch.