However, the cost of hosting the Games is a sensitive issue and many believe
that money used to fund the Games should rather be spent on basic services, reported
The Citizen.
Officials argue that Durban will focus on upgrading existing facilities, with only the
athletes’ village and a shooting range being built from scratch.
“If you look at Durban, the main stadium is in place, the swimming pool is in place, the
athletics track is in place,” said Sam.
Furthermore, most of the venues will be within 2.5 kilometers of the main Moses
Mabhida Stadium, a venue which we used for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
“We will follow the 2012 London Olympics lead and use exhibition centers for the
indoor sports,” said Sam.
National government, local government and sports officials have not yet revealed the
costs involved.
“The time has come for Africa to host these Games. We have the infrastructure,” said
Sam.
Speculation about an Olympics bid
Bidding for the Commonwealth Games is considered as a possible dress rehearsal for a
2024 or 2028 Olympics bid.