On Nelson Mandela's 95^th birthday, the President of the United States Barack Obama gave his tribute to the ailing anti-apartheid leader. Mandela was admitted to a hospital for a critical lung infection last July 8th.

President Obama said in a statement, "Our family was deeply moved by our visit to Madiba's former cell on Robben Island during our recent trip to South Africa, and we will forever draw strength and inspiration from his extraordinary example of moral courage, kindness, and humility."

The government of South Africa asked its people to perform charitable acts in honor of the worldwide icon's birthday celebration. The South African President said that his people should honor the senior leader. Nelson Mandela Day will be celebrated by everyone though 67 charitable acts, symbolizing Nelson Mandela's 67 years in service, said President Jacob Zuma.

The visit of United States officials to South Africa was considered as a necessary step towards the growth of the South African economy. United States Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies told reporters last month that the United States is looking for new African partners, citing that the continent is on the verge of a turnaround.