Joy as Durban wins bid to host Commonwealth Games

CELEBRATIONS erupted across Durban on Wednesday, 2 September, following the news that the city would host the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The announcement took place in Auckland, New Zealand after a unanimous vote by the 71 nations Commonwealth Games Federation.

It will be the first time the event is held on the African continent and is considered important for Durban’s long-term development.

Highway Mail went to Pinecrest Centre in Pinetown and asked locals what their thoughts were on Durban being the first African city to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games:

“It’s amazing and especially excellent for Durban’s tourism. This will be beneficial in creating more jobs. Sports has once again united South Africans, it brought us together, it wasn’t about colour and we were all rooting for Durban to win the bid. We needed that unity again.” – Rachel Govender from Caversham Glen.

“Definitely a fantastic opportunity that will put South Africa and Durban on the map. All eyes will be on us.” – Gina Bertolotti from Kloof.

“I think it will bring job opportunities to the city. However, I don’t think it’s fair the 1000 unit athletes’ village will now become the main focus to be built when South Africans have been waiting for the development of the Cornubia Housing Project.” – Anelisa Mbolekwa from Caversham.

“It’s good, it will bring money and jobs. Pity the jobs will only be created for that short time.” – Hunter Tilling from Pinetown.

“It’s going to bring positive change in Durban during that period of the games. It will also be a time of many festivities and celebrations.” – Keagan Buys from Pinetown.

“It’s exciting news. I watched the last Commonwealth games on TV so it’s going to be nice to get to watch the 2022 games live and attend some of the events. It cost a large of amount of money to bid and hopefully it will all be worth it when the games start.” – Avesh Devunath from Verulam.

“I am happy, especially as it will create jobs, improve infrastructure and be beneficial towards Durban’s development as a whole. This will put Africa on the world map. We successfully hosted the 2010 Soccer World Cup and hopefully this will build confidence in us to eventually host the Olympic games one day.” – Nhlanhla Mlaba from Kwanyuswa.

“If we can afford it, then why not? But we have to think about the costs first and how that will affect Durban.” – Denise Hulbert from Pinetown.