Durban - KwaZulu-Natal Premier Zweli Mkhize says an estimated R3 billion has been injected into the local economy following South Africa's successful hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Mkhize on Thursday discussed the economic impact hosting this global event has already had on South Africa just weeks after the final whistle was blown.
"The long term benefits to South Africa in general and KwaZulu-Natal in particular will far exceed these estimates as the intangible benefits kick in the coming years," the Premier said.
Over R4 million has been spent to develop seven stadia in the province to encourage a growth in sport, including the Harry Gwala Stadium, uMhlathuze multi-sports, Monte Vista sports complex, Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre, Princess Magogo, King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi and Sugar Ray Xulu stadium
A number of roads were constructed and upgraded over the past three years as the Department of Transport, Durban Host City, ACSA and PRASA, worked around the clock to ensure a smooth transport network operated in the province during the World Cup.
The Premier noted that training of volunteers contributed to the safety in the province.
"Our security agencies were instrumental in ensuring that South African received the 8/10 rating from FIFA as the 2010 World Cup host. The Department of Community Safety and Liaison's Volunteer Social Crime prevention project was also a resounding success".
Over 5000 students have been trained in various areas in skill development programmes run by the Department of Education.
This 2010 Legacy project cost around R21 million over a two year period.
Out of 2836 students who trained in Hospitality Services, Languages Services, Travel and Tourism and ICT, 2411 students were placed at Moses Mabhida Stadium to render services during the tournament.
KwaZulu-Natal hosted five World Cup participating teams during the tournament, Algeria, Nigeria, Cameroon, Greece and Paraguay in various parts of the province.
This endeavor ensured that fans were brought closer to the World Cup action as most of the teams interacted actively with communities close to their team base camps.
Mhkize said it also paved way for possible friendly matches in the near future.
While the Premier is pleased with the overall performance of the province, but there is still work to be done in cementing Durban's place in the top tourist destinations in the world.
"The global marketing exposure we have received from successfully hosting this tournament has firmly put us on a world map as a serious global player, and will immensely grow investment opportunities and greatly boost the tourism industry.
He added: "While we remained the most loved and preferred domestic tourism destination, our performance internationally has and is not where we would like to see it, hence our decision to go on an aggressive international marketing campaign".
