Speaker, the ANC welcomes the kick-off of the second phase of the Grassroots Football programme funded by the world football governing body, Fifa. Aspirant footballers between the ages of 6 and 12 in Mangaung/Bloemfontein are set to nurture and develop their skills through a football programme funded by Fifa in the area. The first phase of the programme was launched earlier this year in Tshwane and Mafikeng as part of the 2010 Fifa World Cup legacy. The first two phases of this programme have been a great success. Tshwane introduced 1 385 kids to football within three hours, which was a world record.
We wish this initiative well and look forward to the programme being rolled out to the rest of the country. Football development among young kids is good for the future of football in the country. I thank you. [Applause.]