THE Department of Arts and Culture have teamed-up with the International Marketing Council to use the 2010 Fifa World Cup to promote national symbols.

THE Department of Arts and Culture have teamed-up with the International Marketing Council to use the 2010 Fifa World Cup to promote national symbols.

Minister Lulu Xingwana said the partnership was aimed at intensifying the Fly the Flag campaign to promote national identity, which has proved to be a roaring success.

This comes after the majority of South Africans and other foreign nationals embraced the campaign by hanging the flag on their cars, offices and homes.

"While the campaign is centred on increasing enthusiasm about the World Cup, it has presented a unique opportunity to educate people about the protocols of the flag and the national anthem," said Xingwana.

She said as government, they were happy to see South Africans proudly showing off the national flag, which has become the most wanted item in the country lately.

"We are also happy with the performance of Bafana Bafana, they have been doing well in the past few weeks and we are confident they will do well."

Xingwana's department are funding 21 World Cup related arts and culture projects to the tune of R186 million. One of the projects is the African Experience Soccer Lounge.

"The project proposes an alternative for fans that are unable to participate in any stadium activity but instead enjoy the games in a sophisticated, beautiful and homely atmosphere," said Xingwana.

"The African Experience is an authentically African-themed sports leisure lounge conceptualised by world acclaimed musician and activist Letta Mbulu.

"The space will blend eclectic African art and design with rich music and dance that has always been part of the African culture."