South Africa's Shadow Minister of Sport and Recreation Solomon Malatsi has now written to the Government to demand one is carried out.

"This effectively means that Government does not know how much South Africa stands to lose or gain should we host," said Malatsi. 

"I will write to the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Mr Fikile Mbalula, to urge him to release a detailed breakdown of the costs and benefits associated with hosting the Games.

"No projections have been calculated to determine the percentage and amount estimated to directly benefit those living in extreme poverty."

According to the Durban 2022 website, "the bid is a fully integrated part of Durban's strategic intention to build the profile of the city as a world-class sports destination and to generate significant economic benefits for the region". 

South Africa's Shadow Minister of Sport and Recreation Solomon Malatsi has called for a full financial impact assessment on Durban hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games ©Democratic Alliance

But Malatsi claims that until full financial details are made public South Africans will not be able to judge whether hosting the Games in Africa for the first time will be worth it.

Durban is the only bidder following the withdrawal in February of Canadian city Edmonton due to the international oil crisis.  

"Ultimately, the decision to host the Games should be in the best interests of the people of Durban, and the broader South African economy," said Malatsi, a member of the Democratic Alliance, South Africa's official opposition at national level since 1999. 

"This is even more important now as Durban is the sole bidder for the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

"The absence of such crucial information makes it is difficult for South Africans to make informed decisions about the possible value and the true cost of hosting these Games."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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