Zuma: SA under the microscope

2010-05-08 22:01

Durban - President Jacob Zuma said on Saturday the upcoming FIFA World Cup will put South Africa under global scrutiny last seen during the first democratic elections in 1994.

"Our country is about to come under the microscope and scrutiny. We experienced this during the run-up to our first democratic elections when the world looked on in nervous anticipation," Zuma told delegates at the opening of Tourism Indaba.

The three-day fair showcases southern Africa's tourism products and services for the international market.

"The FIFA 2010 World Cup will forever change the world's perception of South Africa. It is in our hands to make this the best World Cup ever," said Zuma.

South Africa was awarded the right to host the World Cup in 2004, and five brand new stadiums had been built to stage the games and five others revamped.

But the attention of the world has been fixed on different aspects required to make the event a success, like security, hospitality and transport infrastructure.

"When we were awarded the opportunity to host the World Cup, a first ever for Africa, we again understood that the world will be assessing our capability," said Zuma

"We also understood that our delivery will impact on how the world perceives Africa," he added.
 

- AFP