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As I watch the build up to the FIFA 2010 World Cup in South Africa on DSTV daily, I couldn’t help but feel the overriding excitement of the host country and its people. The colours of the Rainbow Nation, the noise of the Vuvuzela, the outstanding levels of preparation and facilities, beautiful hotels and resorts on the ground etc shows that SA and indeed Africa has (is) coming of age.

No one would deny the fact that hosting arguably the world’s leading sporting event is no mean task. With over $4 billion already spent, the FIFA World Cup is not for the lily livered. Constant approving words from the highly reliable Jerome Valcke, FIFA General Secretary indicates that the football governing body is not regretting the award of the hosting right to an African nation. As a matter of fact, South Africa has done more than expected.

Preparation is not limited to infrastructure and allied developments though I would be quick to admit that I was simply blown away by the architectural masterpiece named the ‘Soccer City’ in Soweto. The level of security readiness and awareness displayed by the necessary quarters is heartwarming bearing in mind the peculiarity of most African nations in this regard. Most significantly, South Africa reached out to other African countries to assist her in providing adequate security during the championship. This is in itself would foster Africa unity; a critical platform for the formation of the AU.

As at today, four teams have arrived. Brazil, five times world champions are the first to arrive. This is perhaps an indication of their determination and purpose for this game. Argentina, Denmark and Australia are the remaining early birds. While the rest of Africa and the world wait in bated breath for the kickoff on June 11, 2010, the greatest winner of this event in Josep Blatter, FIFA’s president.

Here is a man who against most popular views of some powerful countries decided to give Africa a chance and suck to his gun despite some unfortunate incidents particularly the attack on the Togolese team on their way to the last ACN in Angola. While some wanted to turn it against South Africa, Blatter comments immediately after that incident clearly portrayed him as a man with deep sense of conviction and love for our continent. The same cannot be said of some members of the executive committee of FIFA.

Without sounding prophetic, I strongly believe that this championship would turn out to be the best tournament ever organized by FIFA. It will eclipse the outstanding 2006 world cup in Germany. Why?

We simply love the sport in Africa! Our passion for the game is unparallel and being the first to be held in our continent; the world should await a spectacle never seen before. This expectation I dare say won’t be on the field of play alone but also with fans support and the famed African hospitality. Indeed the big one is here and the world would not forget Africa in a hurry!

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