/ 13 September 2007

Host cities to kick off 2010 countdown

The eight 2010 Soccer World Cup host cities will hold celebrations to mark the beginning of the 1 000-day countdown to the event, the City of Tshwane said on Thursday.

President Thabo Mbeki is expected to make an address at celebrations taking place at the Union Buildings on Friday — which marks exactly 1 000 days until the soccer spectacle kicks off.

”The countdown commemoration will inform the South African public about the progress made thus far on the 2010 project and also send out a united national message that South Africa and Africa is confident in its ability to host a successful world-class event,” said spokesperson Console Tleane in a statement.

The celebration in the capital will commence at 2pm and will include music and cultural events with performers such as Mafikizolo, Tuks, Medu Nakeng, Blouberg-Dinaka and the Maluleka Cultural Group. — Sapa