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PREPARING SOUTH AFRICA FOR THE WORLD |
Desmond Tutu rose to worldwide fame during the 1980s as an opponent of apartheid. In 1984, he became the second South African to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Tutu was elected and ordained the first black South African Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town. He chaired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and is currently the chairman of The Elders. The outspoken cleric sparked a storm of controversy earlier this month by saying he would not vote in next year's general elections in the current political climate. Project 2010 asked him…  South Africa is going through a turbulent period politically. Do you think this tournament has the potential to mend some of the rifts which are clearly still evident in our society? From the start, bringing the 2010 World Cup to South Africa has brought people together. There was jubilation when we were awarded the event and hot public debate has ensued. Debate is necessary in any society. We may not agree on this or that point, but we are engaged. South Africans across the board are traditionally wonderfully hospitable, we will be hosting the largest party in the world. Itt will require all of us pulling together to ensure its success. I have no doubt that we will not let each other down. You have actively supported the Homeless World Cup. Do you you see the 2010 World Cup being a major catalyst for initiatives like this? Soccer is for everyone - to get out there and play the game. Sport develops mind, body and spirit. I have no doubt that there will be tremendous spin-offs from 2010 and that the event will be an inspiration to the young and the marginalised long after the visitors have gone home. What is your greatest hope of what the World Cup will do for South Africa and the rest of the continent? My hope for the World Cup is that we can show the world that we Africans can put on such a complex tournament and succeed. more interviews...
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