The time has arrived for the 2010 FIFA World Cup to start in South Africa. Visitors have arrived from all over the world. There is big excitement among South Africans, even with those who are not soccer fans, because the South Africans like to unite behind their national sport teams!
How will South Africa benefit from hosting the World Cup?
With the FIFA World Cup being hosted in Africa for the first time, the question has always come up everywhere. How will South Africa, and the African continent benefit from hosting the soccer World Cup? To me it seems that the 3 main benefits are:
- Job creation: It has been estimated that the 2010 Fifa World Cup will sustain an estimated 695 000 jobs.
- Economy boost: An estimated gross impact of R93-billion on South Africa’s economy.
- Tourism: A projected 373 000 foreign tourists will visit South Africa during the World Cup, each spending an estimated R30 200 on average per trip.
However, the indirect benefits from improved perceptions abroad could have an even greater, longer-lasting impact, not only on South Africa and its development but on the continent as a whole. A successful soccer World Cup will help change the perceptions that a large number of foreign investors hold of Africa. South Africa will prove once again that it can live up to its commitments and create a better future for all South Africans.
If you are also excited by the soccer World Cup 2010, please visit Total Soccer Fitness for a step-by-step guide to creating your own custom made, soccer conditioning program aimed at players and coaches.
I wish all the visitors to our beautiful country, and especially to Cape Town, a wonderful and memorable stay
. Enjoy watching the games and come back to visit us again.
About the author: Linky van der Merwe is a Project Management Consultant and an IT Project Manager with more than 11 years Project Management experience.
She consults with business owners and service professionals about project management tools and processes, best practices and successful delivery through projects. She can be reached at linky@virtualprojectconsulting.com
For an interesting soccer world cup overview, visit South Africa Info.