JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (AP):

Former South African president Nelson Mandela has said the children's birthday party, with which he traditionally wraps up his birthday celebrations, is his favourite part of the festivities.

That certainly seemed the case Tuesday, as the 89-year-old chatted happily with his young guests, who cheered as he cut a fast-melting giant vanilla and chocolate cake.

"He's a very nice man. He's like my grandfather," said nine-year-old Mphai Gcina. "He loves children. He wants us to enjoy the party. And he gives us presents."

South Africa has celebrated Mandela's July 18 birthday over the last week with a star-studded soccer match, speeches by former U.S. President Bill Clinton and former U.N. Secretary General, Kofi Annan and the launch of a "council of elders," including Mandela and other Nobel peace laureates, dedicated to finding new ways to foster peace and resolve global crises, and to supporting the next generation of leaders.

Tuesday, about 300 children, clad in red fleece jackets, ran excitedly and noisily around the large garden at the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund. A jumping castle, carousel and inflatable slide had all been laid out for their entertainment.

After singing "Happy Birthday" with the help of a choir, children lined up to present Mandela with gifts, including a painting featuring children's hand prints.

While some got stage fright and forgot their words, others stood up to the microphone and clearly delivered their birthday greetings, calling Mandela, an "angel from heaven."

Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years for his anti-apartheid activism and became South Africa's first democratically elected president in 1994.

"He helped us and went to jail for us," Mphai said.

Before Mandela left the party, a number of knee-high children clamoured to his side to shake his hand, hug and kiss him.