Football summit heading to Durban
THE World Football Summit will be held in Durban in 2020, it was announced yesterday. Durban beat off challenges from Hong Kong, China, and Buenos Aires, Argentina, among others.
At a function in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Sihle Zikalala, said: “Our province is fast becoming a go-to destination for any global organisation that wants to stage a world-class conference or event. The province continues to add more to its portfolio of billions in mega-events which once more proves it is in a league of its own when it comes to hosting high-profile global conferences.”
The summit will bring together influential professionals for talks, and generate opportunities. It involves 80 countries, 2 300 delegates, 90 speakers, 160 clubs and a media contingent of 100, with the economic impact estimated at about R800 million.
The tourism business knock-on is estimated to be worth R4 billion to KZN. Since its official inception in 2010, the Durban KZN Convention Bureau – part of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal – has played a crucial role in securing the hosting of more than 50 key business events. Over the next 10 months or so, KZN will host seven major conferences that will generate almost R500m for the province.
“KwaZulu-Natal’s appetite for hosting mega global events has placed the pro vince at the apex of places highly regarded by global corporations, organisations and event organisers the world over,” said Zikala.
“In the next few months, we will work with stakeholders such as football teams and associations to ensure we maximise the impact of this summit and it leaves a visible legacy in our sporting sector.”