Market research commissioned by FIFA suggests that three out of every four people believe that South Africa will be ready by the time the event starts on June 11, 2010.

According to the first instalment of a six-wave public opinion survey conducted amongst South African citizens by international research company SPORT+MARKT, there is an overwhelming feeling of pride concerning South Africa’s hosting of the tournament; 88% of respondents state they are “proud South Africa is hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup”.

Highlighting the significant social role the event can play in the future of a host nation, three-quarters of the sample feel the tournament “will unite the people of South Africa”. What is more, 77% state they are now more confident the tournament will be a success compared to how they felt in 2004, when South Africa was chosen as host for 2010.

The perceived advantages of hosting the tournament are also widely recognised by South Africans. Ninety-one percent believe the FIFA World Cup will have positive effects on the South African tourism industry, with improvements in the country’s infrastructure such as roads, public transport and telecommunication expected by almost 9 in 10 (87%).

The importance of the role of host is also firmly acknowledged with 83% agreeing that “the 2010 FIFA World Cup will improve South Africa’s image abroad”.

At the same time there are several factors that are of concern to South Africans: 58% feel the FIFA World Cup will result in inflated prices for residents; 53% expect increased traffic congestion; and just over half of South Africans (53%) worry about the level of crime during the tournament.

Meanwhile all 10 host cities launched their official posters for the 2010 World Cup, earlier this week. The posters which will soon become regular features in the host cities, are expected to keep 2010 top of mind for South Africans.

“The poster launch should be seen as an opportunity for all South Africans to increase their awareness and knowledge around the World Cup,” said Sicelo Shiceka Minister for provincial and local government at the poster launch on Monday.

Each of the posters bare unique design elements that reflect special attributes of each of the host cities. The Cape Town poster, depicting Table Mountain celebrates diversity among its people, says Fifa.com while Durban shows off its character with bright colours and abundant ‘vibe’. For Johannesburg, prosperity is the inspiration behind the city’s poster but the city also made sure it included support for the national football team, Bafana Bafana, with green and gold as the main colours.

Source: South Africa: The Good News