"The presidency has been advised by the doctors that former president Nelson Mandela had a restful day and continues to receive treatment," spokesperson Mac Maharaj said in a statement on Sunday.

"Government is satisfied that the doctors are providing the former president with the best medical care possible to enable his recovery and comfort."

He said President Jacob Zuma thanked the many South Africans who prayed for Madiba at various Easter church services over the weekend.

"We also thank all people at home and around the world, who continue to keep Madiba and his family in their thoughts and to show their love and support in various ways," Zuma said.

"We also thank foreign governments for their messages of support."

Zuma also acknowledged a message from the African Union wishing Madiba well.

Mandela was admitted to hospital shortly before midnight on Wednesday.

Since then, the presidency has updated the public several times telling them that Mandela is responding positively to treatment and remained comfortable.

Over the last few months, Mandela has been in hospital a few times. His lengthiest stay was 18 days he spent in December in a Pretoria hospital during which he underwent an operation to remove gallstones and received treatment for his recurring lung infection.

South Africa's first black president has a long history of lung problems, dating back to the time when he contracted tuberculosis while a political prisoner on Robben Island during apartheid. – Sapa