In a keynote address in Geneva, Switzerland, Deputy Minister of Sport and Recreation, Mr Gert Oosthuizen, highlighted the successes that preceded and accompanied the hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
Quoting FIFA President Sepp Blatter, the Deputy Minister said the event had recent a 'Cum Laude' rating from the organisation, but the true victory had been one for peace, development and prosperity in South Africa and on the continent. Afro-pessimism had been knocked out, he said.
He mentioned the socio-economic benefits the country had derived from the hosting of the event, and that South Africa had gained major ground in establishing 'Brand South Africa' internationally. This is, for instance, reflected in the fact that while in 2005 only five international carriers were landing at South African airports, this number had grown to 50 in 2011. Tourism numbers had increased by 15% in 2010, especially from new markets like South America.
He said that the challenge was to maintain and sustain the momentum especially as far as social cohesion was concerned. However, “Today is a better day than yesterday.... the long walk has not ended,” he said in closing, quoting former President Nelson Mandela.
The full speech is available in the SRSA Document Library.
