Magic of the 'Beautiful Game' Within Reach of all at PVAs Throughout KZN

Durban, South Africa -- 19 June 2010 -- At a recent press conference, held by Acting MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Ina Cronje announcing the PVA programme for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, she said that in order to ensure that everybody - even those who live outside the host city -are able to bask in the magic of the world cup. To achieve this she said government had spent almost R80 million on the PVA programme 

A staggering 18 000 fans descended on the Empangeni / Richards Bay PVA while 13 000 flocked to Port Shepstone PVA to watch South Africa’s second bout against Uruguay. We may have lost, but that did not dampen the enthusiasm nor the spirits of the ardent football followers. 

Good turnouts were also experienced in Pietermaritzburg, Umvoti, Mtubatuba and the other five PVA venues across the province. 

As many if not more are expected at the game between South Africa and France on June 22 and again for the quarterfinals, semi-finals and final game when the PVAs will be “open for business”. 

“The aim of this programme is to ensure that when we all draw the curtain to this biggest sporting spectacle on earth, all of us would have experienced the excitement of the world cup, irrespective of where we are in this province,” said Ms Cronje.

The PVA programme is supported by nine government departments and 10 municipalities who have contributed towards making it a success. At least 120 SMMEs and co-operatives have been afforded the opportunity to trade at the PVA venues

It is also important to stress that the KZN PVAs are in keeping with the FIFA regulations and the entrance is free. This means that all members of the community in the respective districts can come and experience the pleasure of watching the games on the screens while also soaking up the electrifying atmosphere which will prevail at these PVAs.

The PVAs will be organised along similar lines, with common features including staging and screening facilities, soccer clinics, catering facilities, food and beverage and liquor sales. But more importantly, there is a strong police presence and traffic control. Marshals will also be on hand to ensure that there is smooth control of the human traffic.