16 March 2009

Driving to work this morning I glanced at all the election posters at the side of the road. I must admit that I am not the most passionate person about politics – and even less passionate about politicians. Perhaps this is as a result of broken promises, charges of corruption or my belief that they are less committed to a worthy cause and the improvement of the lives of others - than their commitment towards improving their own lives and maintaining high salaries and luxury vehicles.  I will however vote – as I believe this is simply the right thing to do!

Amongst all the colourful election posters there were also a few road signs pointing direction to some of the important roads in and around Bloemfontein. I could not help ask myself whether this is tourism friendly – and whether foreign visitors would be able to find their way through the clutter of election activism.

The next thought crossing my mind was the FIFA 2010 World Cup, our progress in preparations and the expectations amongst citizens. Are we going to host a successful 2010?

I believe that the success of 2010 for South Africa is not going to be decided by politicians and party leaders! How do we determine the success of such an event?

My thoughts on this are:

• The success of the 2010 World Cup for South Africa will be determined by the perceptions created in the minds of people from the rest of the world!
• If the hosting of the 2010 World Cup does not create respect and a desire to visit and do business with South Africa – the World Cup would have failed for South Africa.
• The success will not be measured by a glittering opening or closing ceremony [even though this is an important branding opportunity] and fortunately also not by the performance of the Bafana Bafana. Even if our football team does not reach the final stages of the competition – the World Cup might still be a success for South Africa.

The success of the World Cup for South Africa is to be decided by ordinary people – people who

• Extend a smile of friendship to our visitors
• Extend a hand of assistance to a foreigner
• Quality service from a restaurant waiter, petrol attendant, cash teller, cleaner etc
• A friendly word of advice or direction
• A conversation on a bus or a friendly chat from someone on the adjacent seat at the stadium
• A courteous wave in traffic or allowing the foreigner who made a mistake to get back in the right lane

For many of us in South Africa the 2010 World Cup is already a success – it has delivered construction activity, created jobs and placed a new emphasis on building of new infrastructure or road maintenance.

For the World Cup to exceed expectations and to contribute to nation building and economic growth we do not have to depend on our politicians – this is something that we can all deliver by being proud South Africans  - by being humble, helpful, courteous  and friendly!!

[Also visit the Arrive Alive website for information on “Road Safety for foreign visitors travelling in South Africa”]