Gauteng ready to host the Africa Nations Cup

The Gauteng Provincial government has noted media reports regarding the withdrawal of its cities including the Joburg, Ekurhuleni and lately Tshwane from hosting the Africa Nations Cup. The department would like to reiterate its readiness and commitment to ensure Gauteng is involved in the success of Africa’s top soccer tournament.

With government’s mission to position Gauteng as the preferred destination for major sporting events which ultimately will contribute towards nation building, social cohesion and economic growth; hence efforts to ensure an agreement is reached continue to ensure maximum participation of the province through its cities. We believe we have the infrastructure be it roads, stadia, health and emergency facilities and the supporters which have all passed the test of time.

The approach for Gauteng hosting the tournament is that it should be an integrated one, aimed at profiling the entire province as we promote. This will see the legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup continuing to benefit the province and its people in making sure that we bring world class events and activities within the reach of our communities.

We acknowledge concerns raised by the cities including on the demand by the organisers that only World Cup venues are to be used for the tournament. This has meant cities like Ekurhuleni and Tshwane are being disqualified because they wanted to use the (World Cup) legacy venues including Sinaba stadium (Ekurhuleni) and Lucas Moripe and HM Pitjie stadiums (Tshwane).

Following a meeting with the South African Flameproof Association (SAFA) which was in turn to engage other role players including Confederation of African Football (CAF), Gauteng government is awaiting a response on the concerns raised. We however remain committed to the AFCON project and we believe like the world cup we are ready to assist the country in delivering a successful tournament.

Enquiries
Nino Zama
Tel 011 355 2702
Cell: 083 473 6725
E-mail: nino.zama@gauteng.gov.za