Govt to intensify 2010 communications

Speaking at the 2010 National Communication Partnership 4th Conference in Johannesburg on Monday, 17 August 2009, Maseko said government had set up a number of structures to enhance its marketing and communication plan, to ensure that it speaks in one voice.

He said GCIS, as the government's communication machinery, will work with various stakeholders in improving the communication strategy which will effectively mobilise the public and the international community about the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

"Communication is the key tool in delivering a successful World Cup. In this regard, we need to develop an appropriate and resounding communication strategy to host the best world cup ever.

"As government, we have set up a number of structures to enhance our marketing and communication plan and to ensure that government speaks in one voice," said Maseko.

He added that government acknowledged challenges around the world cup, including effective communication, and has thus established the ministerial committee chaired by Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe.

He said the committee has been formed to coordinate challenges faced by the country in hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Maseko affirmed that the provincial government and host cities would soon develop their communication plans that will be integrated to the national plan to improve the communication and marketing strategy for the world's renowned sporting event.

The conference, which was hosted in partnership with the International Marketing Council of South Africa and GCIS, was attended by professional communicators from private and public sectors.

Chairperson of the 2010 National Communication Partnership, Nkwenkwe Nkomo said the conference aimed to find effective plans that will help to mobilise and ignite soccer passions from Cape to Cairo.

"This forum aim to put plans in place to empower a continent to chant the glories of African football in one voice.

"As host, South Africa's readiness has been tested. We are on the home stretch, requiring informed, integrated and inclusive communications planning that built on achievements made to date, and key learning experienced from the FIFA 2009 Confederations Cup," he said.

Article published courtesy of BuaNews