The Importance of the 2010 World Cup to South Africa

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I’ve been talking a lot about the 2010 World Cup in South Africa throughout this blog and on twitter. It’s the largest sporting event in the world, second only to the Olympics. But there are more important reasons why this event is even more significant to the Country of South Africa.

Past

Many of you are familiar with South Africa’s Apartheid history – a time when Black and Colored South Africans were forced to live segregated lives. It was a horrible time for the country and I’ll leave it at that. In 1994 with the release of Nelson Mandela from prison and his election to President the country was on a path of reform, hope, change, possibility, prosperity and better lives for everyone.

Present

Now, only 16 years later, much has improved for South Africa. It has lots of first-world infrastructure, technology and transportation networks. It’s GDP is growing. Many times you feel like you are in the United States and not in the Africa you have always pictured in your mind. But post-Apartheid South Africa is still a young country. For as much that has been developed, there’s always a constant reminder that you are in a developing country. Tin shacks, poverty, crime, joblessness and corruption are prevalent throughout the nation (more in some areas than others).

South Africa’s contribution to the world includes Gold and other minerals, Agriculture and Tourism. There’s no shortage of people to elevate South Africa’s stature on the world stage, it just lacks resources (money). One of it’s major industries, Gold Mining has in recent years encountered challenges in production, which is why the Tourism Industry has become so important in bringing money into the country.

Future

Many South Africans believe that if the country is successful in hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup, tourism will increase exponentially. With this increase in visitors will come money. Money that can be used to expand city services, build better roads, construct homes and create jobs. The quality of life will improve for everyone. This World Cup is a huge advertisement to the world. A marketing campaign that the country couldn’t afford if they wanted to.

That’s why there’s been so much energy around preparing for these games. This is a chance for South Africa to show how far they’ve come in such a short period of time. It’s a proud moment for the country; the first African Nation to ever host FIFA World Cup. If the unthinkable happens and visitors have an unpleasant experience, it will be a tough recovery for the country. If tourism isn’t successful, what’s Plan B?

I haven’t found an answer to that question.

But if the media positively report on their experience; If visitors have an amazing time, South Africa will reap the benefits for years to come.

So on a personal note, I want South Africa to be successful. It’s a country that has given so much to me, that my being here, in a small way, is to try to give something back to them. Something that can provide them with the increase in tourism, positive feedback and reputation and pride in their country that they need to make their home a better place for everyone.

The first time I arrived in South Africa in 2007 the flight attendant said as we touched down in Johannesburg,

“Welcome To South Africa. Whether you’re here to visit family, connect with friends or see the animals, know that you have just arrived to the most beautiful place on the planet.”

It is with great pride here at adventureswithben.com that I can share with you South Africa’s coastlines, animals and people. If you had to choose only one country in the world to stamp your passport, I would say without hesitation, 100% of the time, South Africa.

When the 2010 FIFA World Cup Games begin on June 11 I’ll be sitting in my living room watching the opening ceremony on TV. I’ll be wearing my Bafana Bafana Jersey every Friday (called Football Friday) and I’ll be playing my Vuvuzela every time a goal is scored. From June 11th to July 11th I’ll be following as much coverage of the games as possible and I hope you do too.

Thank you South Africa. This American is rooting for you.

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Have you been to South Africa? What’s your fondest memory of your trip?

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