EThekwini Municipality, together with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government, recently hosted the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations Local Organising Committee delegation. The delegation led by the AFCON LOC Chief Executive Officer, Mvuzo Mbebe, was in Durban for site inspection and to further explain what is expected from the City as it is one of the host cities.

The delegation inspected the City’s hotels and the stadia to establish if they fit the criteria required to host an event of this magnitude. The MEC for Economic Development, Mike Mabuyakhulu said the visit is appreciated and has helped to clarify some issues, which were outstanding.“They will now be going back to discuss what it is that we will get as the Province and the City.

We want to make it clear that we would love to host the Semi Finals. The people of this Province are very passionate about the game and they deserve to watch semifinal games in their home grounds. It is now an open secret that we presented the best bid. We are known for hosting big events,” said Mabuyakhulu. Mayor James Nxumalo, said LOC was visiting all the host cities and was expecting the feedback about the visit. Deputy City Manager for Health and Social Services, Musa Gumede said the City has budgeted R20 million for the AFCON, R 15million will come from the Province and the balance will be paid out by the AFCON LOC: “ The games will be double headers so we hoping to secure the draw and six match days including the semifinal,” adds Gumede.