Mandela celebrates 90 years

AP:

Sounding and looking vigorous, Mandela told a small group of reporters he was fortunate to have reached 90, crediting his "behavior" for his longevity.

"If you are poor, you are not likely to live long," he said.

His message was simple — the wealthy must do more.

"There are many people in South Africa who are rich and who can share those riches with those not so fortunate, who have not been able to conquer poverty," Mandela said during the 10-minute interview, his first such exchange with journalists in years.

Former South African President Nelson Mandela reacts during an interview with the media at his house in Qunu, rural southeastern South Africa, Friday, July 18, 2008. (AP Photo/Themba Hadebe, Pool)