The Presidency in South Africa yesterday said doctors attending to former President Nelson Mandela have reported that he has made progress during the past 24 hours and they are satisfied with the way he is responding to treatment.

Madiba is being treated for a lung infection at a Pretoria hospital. He was admitted on Saturday.

There has been an outpouring of well wishes for Madiba from South Africans from all walks of life since news of his illness broke. A large media contingency has been camped outside the 1 Military Hospital in Pretoria where security has been beefed up, although, the Presidency has not confirmed that Madiba is being treated there.

"We continue to request that Madiba and his family be accorded the necessary space and privacy and thank the media and the public for cooperation," said the Presidency.

The presidency had earlier reported that doctors in South Africa have concluded tests on former President Nelson Mandela and these have revealed the recurrence of a previous lung infection.

In a statement earlier issued to journalists, South African authourity said Mandela was receiving the appropriate treatment and responding well.

President Jacob Zuma, who has visited him during his stay, thanked the public for continuous support to Madiba and his family at this time