Johannesburg — The presidency had no update on the state of former president Nelson Mandela's health on Saturday morning.

"We have not heard any news or updates on our side," said spokesman Mac Maharaj.

Mandela is receiving home-based care since being discharged from hospital on Wednesday.

He was originally flown from Qunu in the Eastern Cape to Pretoria on December 8 to receive treatment for a lung infection. He also underwent gallstone surgery.

Meanwhile, the former statesman's grandchild Zaziwe Manaway reportedly told Eyewitness News that Mandela was "alert".

"He is very alert. My grandfather still wakes up in the morning [and] reads the newspaper so he is also aware of what is being said about him," Manaway told the news station.

Mandela has a history of lung problems, having suffered from tuberculosis towards the end of his 27-years spent in prison.

Well wishes have been pouring in for the elderly statesman and his family.