Health dept sets aside R300 million for 2010

Tshabalala-Msimang

The National health department has allocated close to R300 million to enhance the country's health system in preparation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Tournament. Health minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang made the announcement during FIFA's two-day medical workshop in Kimberley.

The workshop, organised by the world football governing body and the 2010 Local Organising Committee, is aimed at deliberating on the health, medical and doping control requirements for the soccer showpiece. Tshabalala-Msimang says certain private and public health facilities will be designated as primary centres for the tournament.

"Because it's just not money we know it is costly, however, it is the legacy that it will leave behind that we are very exited about. Yes we have allocated close to R300 million for this occasion in order to ensure that our medical services can cope with the necessary requirements for the World Cup."