President Zuma says South Africa ‘more than ready’ to host World Cup in June

President Zuma: SAfrica ‘more than ready’ for WCup

LONDON — South Africa president Jacob Zuma announced at Wembley Stadium on Thursday that his country was “ready, if not more than ready” to host the first World Cup on African soil.

On his first state visit to the United Kingdom, Zuma visited the home of English soccer and reassured the world that the host country was on track for a successful event.

“As a country we have worked hard to ensure that the World Cup comes to South Africa, and it is coming,” he said. “We can say now without fear of contradiction that we are ready, if not more than ready, to receive those who come to South Africa.”

Relaxed and making jokes, Zuma pointed out the government ministers that had accompanied him on his visit. Many of them wore bright scarves with the red, blue, green and yellow of the South African flag as they sat among the media.

“We are a team here,” Zuma said.

Minister of police Nathi Mthethwa likely will be one of the busiest of the group as concerns were raised over safety and security at the tournament that begins June 11.

Zuma was quick to respond.

“It is expected that people will have concerns, but we have worked very hard on the World Cup and that has included the question of safety … the fact is we have brought down crime already,” Zuma said.

“We are therefore very confident on this. And when we say we are ready now for the World Cup, we do not exclude the question of security in that. We are ready to protect those who come. If there are those who are skeptical or feel concern, they must know this matter has been addressed. They will come to South Africa safely and leave safer.”

South Africa’s World Cup chief Danny Jordaan, who Zuma referred to as “Mr. 2010″, said the organizers had made unprecedented security arrangements for the monthlong event.

“I feel comfortable,” Jordaan said when asked if he was happy with the plans.

He added South Africa would be the first host country to meet with security representatives for all 32 participating teams at Friday’s FIFA World Cup security workshop in Zurich.

Jordaan added that more of the lower-priced tickets had been made available for local fans in South Africa.

President Zuma traded jokes with his host, FA chairman Lord David Triesman, who introduced the head of state. Triesman wished the South Africa soccer team good luck, before saying “My wish is, of course, that England will win the World Cup.”

“Bafana Bafana will take the cup,” Zuma said, joking back and using the South African team’s nickname.

Zuma’s presence at the 90,000-seater stadium was in part to promote the 2010 World Cup. He also heard a presentation on England’s 2018 World Cup bid and endorsed the 1Goal campaign, which supports education for underprivileged children.

Zuma also scored on a penalty kick at Wembley field, watched by England manager Fabio Capello and South Africa captain Aaron Mokoena.