South Africa's hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup will leave a legacy for the children of the African continent, President Jacob Zuma says.

Do you agree the millions investing into hosting the world cup is money well spent and ensures the country prospers in the longer-term?

Wow! This group posts some great issues! I rarely reply to very many posts in other groups.

I am thrilled to see the awareness that is being generated about South Africa. Yes, it may be more of a PR effort, but my eyes were opened to some very interesting views of the culture on yesterday's preview. Typically, most American sports stations only show what is happening with American athletes and a little filler with those of other countries. This preview was wonderful and gave a nice presentation of all of the teams and many snapshots of the football culture in countries around the world. I am excited to see (what appears to be) the global perspective on ESPN during the World Cup.

As for the $$ spent, one positive byproduct of this expense is more global awareness, which makes everyone all over the world human and real. We must have compassion when we see people in that light, making it more difficult to "look the other way" if a nation is in trouble.

Great question stella and a nice response to this question Lisa!

Will there be longer term benefits....i really hope so! My gut feeling is that the publicity generated by the world cup will attract large corporate organisations to invest in South Africa because they see that the country can stage this event successfully. Secondly, the infrastructure investment made on roads and transporation will also help sell this to investors.

The african contintent needs to grab the ball and the commerical opportunities that come along once in a life time!

Go AFRICA!!!