THE Limpopo provincial government and Polokwane municipality have developed an African Cultural Village as part of the 2010 Fifa World Cup celebrations.

THE Limpopo provincial government and Polokwane municipality have developed an African Cultural Village as part of the 2010 Fifa World Cup celebrations.

Ndavhe Ramakuela, director for the 2010 World Cup in Polokwane, said the village is situated at the Capricorn High School premises in the city.

"When we were bidding to host the World Cup, we made it clear that it will be an African tournament and we are delivering on that commitment.

"This is a golden opportunity for all Africans to exhibit their cuisine, dances, culture and artefacts.

"Neighbouring countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique have confirmed that they will exhibit at the village. We also have people from other East and West African countries like Ivory Coast and Ethiopia who will join us."

Ramakuela said shuttle services from Polokwane municipality's park-and-ride facilities to the Peter Mokaba Stadium will also provide access to the village.

"The village will open at 6am because we will have people coming to Polokwane in the early hours."

Limpopo Premier Cassel Mathale said preparations for the Cup were going well: "We are on track to contribute to the success of the World Cup in South Africa and the support we are getting from the community is incredible."

Carlos Tevez of Argentina and Thierry Henry of France are some of the big-name players who will be seen in action in Polokwane.