Counting down to the FIFA World Cup.

The world over is excited about the world cup but I’m sure Africans are ecstatic. The 2010 FIFA World Cup has a totally different meaning to us than to anyone else. It is not merely about the entertainment that is brought by soccer but it’s about making a name for ourselves, Africans.

At some point xenophobic attacks erupted in South Africa, a country that has become a haven for most people from Southern Africa. The attacks left most of us dumb founded but at realizing how close the world cup was foreigners and South Africans alike united.

At the sight of vuvuzelas, soccer jerseys, huge soccer ball ornaments and decorated hats all huts melt, smiles shine and we all celebrate being African. The rest of the continent distanced themselves from South Africa but now we all chant unity and the beauty of being African. The FIFA World Cup has done what the United Nations has had challenges doing over a very long period of time a countless number of times.

Regardless of whether people are now attracted to Africa because they can make money out of it or not is not important but surely we have noticed the attention that the continent has attracted. Akon, Keri Hilson, Shakira and many other American artistes have been visiting Africa making a name for themselves and at the same time making money but who cares? All that matters now is that Africa has gotten the spotlight that some would kill for.

I am not a soccer fan per se but I anticipate the official opening of the World Cup. Questions rush through my mind, will the opening be as awesome as the one that was presented in Chine or as wonderful as the Olympics that were held ion Greece. Whatever the case South Africa will pull tooth and nail to prove that it has what it takes.

Lest I get carried away, the 2010 FIFA World Cup is not just about South Africa but other African countries as well. Many other countries are preparing for the novel time. Zimbabwe is boosting its tourist attractions, hotels and other recreational facilities. It is very important to prepare for visitors even if it means making a fleeting impression this is why in some households they will use the most expensive cutlery to impress a visitor and pack it all back as soon as the visitor leaves. Likewise, when one knows that a neighbor is expecting important visitors they will also tidy their place in preparation without any guarantee if the visitors will even take a glance at their home. Zimbabwe and many other countries are in the same situation as they prepare to welcome the tourists, soccer fans and other delegated despite that there is no guarantee that these will set foot in other countries besides South Africa.

On a number of instances when one talks about South Africa, the crime rate and corruption in the country quickly comes into mind but of late many of us can confirm that the country has picked a different vibe altogether. Excitement grips us to such an extent that we have picture the country as one huge colourful soccer stadium with glimmering lights, fascinated spectators, vivacious and energetic commentators, bold players and one beautiful ball that shall be used to make history.