The Final Draw, which will determine the match schedule for the 32 participating teams in next year’s soccer bonanza, will be held at 19:00 on Friday, December 4, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

    "Over 3 000 international dignitaries and media representatives are expected to attend this event which will be televised live to an estimated audience of 150 million people around the world," says Executive Mayor Dan Plato.

    "The City will be pulling out all stops to demonstrate its professionalism, creativity and expertise through this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Africa’s greatest city is ready to host the world.

    "To make residents and visitors feel part of the Final Draw, the City has also organised a one-day festival in Long Street where the public can view the ceremony on several large television screens.

    "We wish to thank Long Street residents, business owners and churches for supporting this event. Besides creating a sense of excitement among locals, the event is aimed at showcasing a safe street revellers’ experience to an international audience.

    "We are most grateful to all the City employees who have walked the extra mile and gone beyond the call of duty to get Cape Town in ship-shape condition for the Final Draw," says Mayor Plato.

    Prior to the Final Draw at 19:00, the City of Cape Town is to host a spectacular ‘Red Carpet’ event to welcome VIPs to the CTICC. Top South African artists will provide an unforgettable experience for guests by showcasing the unique tastes, sights and sounds of the Cape.

    According to Lesley de Reuck, 2010 Operations Director, Long Street and adjoining streets will be closed off to traffic and transformed into a pedestrian zone from the Long Street Baths to Wale Street. From 12:00 noon to midnight, South African artists such as Freshlyground and Jimmy Dludlu will entertain partygoers.

    The annual switching on of Cape Town’s festive lights in Adderley Street on Sunday November 29 will kickstart the weeklong celebrations. Over 100 000 people are expected to gather in Adderley Street to witness the colourful extravaganza of light and sound when Mayor Plato hits the switch.

    This 43-year-old ceremony, which is accompanied by a star-studded concert and a 2 000-strong carnival parade, is billed as Cape Town’s largest open-air event.

    "For these three main events, several hundred City officials from Metro Police, Traffic Services, Law Enforcement, Fire & Rescue, Transport & Roads, Disaster Risk Management, City Health, City Parks, Sports & Recreation, Arts & Culture, Electricity, Solid Waster, and Water Services will be pooling their expertise and resources to ensure a clean, safe and memorable experience," says De Reuck.

    An integrated safety and security plan was developed for each event under the leadership of SA Police Service.

    An extensive 2010 City Beautification Programme is also underway. While activities are currently focused on preparing Cape Town for the Final Draw, these will be extended next year to the entire World Cup footprint.

    Several new tree planting and landscaping projects are underway, road surfaces and sidewalks are being upgraded, new cycling and pedestrian infrastructure is under construction, street lighting and traffic signals are being improved, additional tourism signage will be installed and litter and illegal dumping are being cleared.

    Prior to and during the events, several roads will be closed temporarily to enable event organisers and various City and Provincial services to prepare and secure these venues. Details will be published in the local media.

    "The City apologises in advance for any inconvenience that may be caused," says De Reuck.