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Sport Minister Zizi Kodwa Assures All Systems Go for Netball World Cup
SA is ready to host the Netball World Cup, according to Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa. The event started today at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). According to SowetanLIVE, the tournament began with a match between Tonga and Fiji at 9 am. Later, the opening ceremony will be at 4 pm. And to close off the first day, South Africa will take on Wales at 6 pm.
After inspecting the CTICC facilities, Kodwa expressed satisfaction with the work of the tournament organisers, stating that everything is in place for a successful opening day. He assured all South Africans that the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) and the security cluster were ready for the event, with the capability of the country to host the tournament beyond doubt.
Minister Kodwa highlighted the excitement among all participating nations, emphasising the unifying power of sports. He also acknowledged that there will always be lessons to learn in organising events of this magnitude, drawing on New Zealand’s Women’s World Cup experience, where a shooting incident occurred on the opening day but didn’t dampen the event’s spirit.
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Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Anroux Marais expressed the province’s excitement to host the tournament after extensive preparation work, including legacy projects like the rollout of 40 netball courts across the region. Alderman James Vos, MMC for Economic Growth in the Western Cape, added that the province is determined to make South Africa and the entire continent proud of hosting the Netball World Cup.
Tournament Director Priscilla Masisi expressed joy at finally reaching this stage and confirmed that all 16 teams are in the precinct, with match and training venues ready. The opening match has already sold out, with 5,000 tickets snapped up by eager fans.
Lt-Gen Tebello Mosikili assured the world of the security measures in place. SAPS will ensure high visibility of police officers on foot and in vehicles throughout the event.
As the anticipation builds and teams get ready to showcase their skills, the Netball World Cup promises to be an exciting and memorable tournament for players and fans alike.
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Picture: Twitter / LitSego
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