The Local Organising Committee for the Orange AFCON South Africa 2013 had a packed AFCON Week. Flags were hoisted high up at three host cities yesterday and today. Today, the City of Durban hosted the hoisting of the flags ceremony of the four (South Africa, Angola, Cape Verde and Morocco) countries that will be based in Durban during the first round of the Tournament at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Amongst the guests that attended this event were the Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, the Local Organising Committee Representatives, Ambassadors, City and Provincial Officials, Soccer Legends, Media, SAFA Regions and Business Partners.
In his address the Major of eThekwini Municipality, Councillor James Nxumalo urged the City to begin immediately with public activations so that the public can feel that the Tournament is here. He said: “As the City of Durban we would like to see visibility and activities at all the surrounding townships to show that AFCON 2013 is here. This tournament must be felt by every person and every soccer fan just like we did during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.”
“As you know, and proudly so, eThekwini and the city of Durban has become synonymous with hosting and staging successful international events. Not once has this city failed to rise to the occasion when called upon to do so. As the LOC we are committed to be with you every step of the way to make sure that you make a success of this Tournament” said Mr. Alpha Mchunu, LOC Board Member who gave a speech on behalf of the LOC.
The Military Band was there to lead the performance of the South African National Anthem as the South African flag was raised after the formal programme. Thefour flags of the countries (South Africa, Angola, Cape Verde and Morocco) were raised in alphabetical order, the South African flag was raised first as it is the hosting country. Amongst the flags hoisted is the Durban host city flag for the Orange Africa Cup Of Nations.