Edward West

The International Conference Centre in Durban has generated more than R5,5 billion income for the region after being built at a cost of R280 million, according to KwaZulu-Natal premier Sbu Ndebele.

Speaking at the opening of the ICC Arena, he said the R460 million arena would "open rich new revenue streams that will strengthen the centre's value as a catalyst for economic growth".

Ndebele said the 2010 soccer world cup would bring many opportunities to the province in sectors such as tourism, sport and hotels, while boosting business at the ICC complex, soon to be renamed Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre.

"In this very place on 23 November this year, Fifa president Sepp Blatter will launch the road to the 2010 Fifa World Cup finals in 2010, when he launches the preliminary draw for the competition.

That will be one of Africa's biggest media events ever held," Ndebele said.

Transport Minister Jeff Radebe said eThekwini was on the world map of conferencing and sports due to events such as the A1 Grand Prix and the Fifa Beach Soccer African qualifiers.

He said each project in eThekwini's preparations for the World Cup "has been carefully planned to ensure it is not simply a legacy but not a burden on future generations".

Ndebele said effective governance was not only central to improving social delivery, "it is also an indispensable component of economic efficiency and job creation".

Business Day