Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

The 2010 Local Organising Committee yesterday assured people that creating a smooth and effective communication system was one of their highest priorities.

Speaking at a Fifa media workshop in Sandton, LOC chairman Irvin Khoza said the process got under way with the recruiting of some of the finest communicators to serve the function with skill and efficiency.

Also in attendance were members of the visiting Fifa delegation.

Though Khoza did not mention names, he was, clearly referring to the employment of former radio and television talk show host Tim Modise and former CNN news anchor Tumi Makgabo.

"The media workshop represents another landmark on the road to the Fifa World Cup in 2010. Smooth and effective communications is not therefore something that we would like to have, it is what we must have," he said.

"Although communication is a critical component of the entire World Cup process, it is also the single largest culprit when it comes to problems that may arise. How many times has a lack of communication, or more often miscommunication, resulted in a missed opportunity, an error, an oversight or even a dangerous situation?

"As organisers of this showpiece tournament, we will broadcast one message with one voice. This will require self-discipline and organisation, but within our structures we have identified specific spokesmen, who will be equipped and empowered to speak.

"When one statement is made, that voice is heard clearly and misunderstandings are avoided. The problems start when more than one view is put forward from within the organisation and this is a situation we must avoid."

Khoza's assurances come after concerns that there were contradictions locally when soccer administrators talk on specific issues.