Venue - Johannesburg
Monday, July 17, 2006
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Johannesburg, also known as ‘Joburg’, is the capital of the Gauteng Province. It contributes 16% of the national GDP making it the economic powerhouse in South Africa. At 1,753m above sea level, Joburg is considered the gateway to South Africa and indeed, Africa.
Johannesburg was founded on October 4, 1886, after the discovery of gold in the area. The origin of the name ‘Johannesburg’ is not clear although Johannes was a very common Dutch name at the time. Christiaan Johannes Joubert and Johannes Rissik, who were sent by the state to decide on the place where the newly founded ‘gold town’ would be found. There is speculation that the city may have been named after them. However, Veldkornet (field commander) Johannes Meyer, who is attributed with bringing stability to the area by pegging out gold prospectors claims is also a likely candidate. Joburg is also aptly nicknamed: Egoli, the place of gold, as approximately 40% of the world’s gold originates from here.
When there are no match days, there is plenty to do in Joburg. Constitutional Hill is near the city centre which encompasses the Constitutional Court, the highest court in South Africa. It was previously a prison where apartheid political prisoners were held, often without a trial. The Apartheid Museum, near Soccer City, is a must see for all visitors. The Mai Mai Market is one of the oldest markets in Joburg where you can buy muti (traditional medicines) from a sangoma (traditional healer and herbalist) to help your team along.
Joburg could be called the home of football as it has the highest concentration of football teams in South Africa. Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs, Moroko Swallows, and Jomo Cosmos all play their football in the greater Joburg area.
Stadiums
Johannesburg will have two stadiums to host the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, Soccer City and Ellis Park. Ellis Park, built in 1927, is near the city centre and is part of a 48 hectare Greater Ellis Park Sport Precinct. It has been host to many international football and rugby games and seats 55,000 people. Although predominantly a rugby stadium, it has hosted matches involving Arsenal, Manchester United and Brazil. The sports complex will be upgraded for the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ and the stadium should seat 60,000.
Soccer City currently seats 80,000 people, but after its planned upgrade should seat 94,700. It is also home to the South African Football Association. The Local Organising Committee for the 2010 FIFA World Cup as well as the FIFA offices will be near the stadium. About 40% of Joburg’s population live in Soweto, in close proximity to Soccer City. This will make the stadium a hub of activity during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.
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