When you host a tournament the size of the World Cup, there are so many factors to consider that most individuals, teams, organizations would not be able to handle it. After all, hosting the all important FIFA World Cup is no easy task. It seems that South Africa, however, are proving to be more competent at putting up a smooth and thoughtful event than anyone could have imagined. The latest news coming out of Cape Town is the immense preparation being taken to host all the Muslim guests that will come to South Africa for the World Cup.

2010 World Cup South Africa Muslims

What kind of preparations are being done to accommodate the thousands of players and fans of Muslim beliefs expected to make an arrival in June?

First, there are a number of Halaal restaurants being opened throughout the host cities. The National Independent Halaal Trust are one of the key partners in making sure this is all handled smoothly. President of the NIHT, Moulana Abdul Wahab Wookay shared some of the organizations preparations:

“Volunteers will be placed outside stadiums handing out lists of Halaal restaurants, products and prayer facilities in that city and they will also answer any questions from Muslim spectators”

Meanwhile, the Council of Muslim Theologians are in the process of creating a list of all the prayer venues, Halaal restaurants and helpful guidelines for Muslim guests in the Gauteng province. They will be available at hotels, guest houses, and airports to make sure that Muslim guests never feel too far away from home.

Prayers are naturally a big part of the Muslum faith and there are currently 500 Mosques/Masaajids in South Africa to accommodate Muslims of both sexes.

It is usually details like this that determine just truly how ready a country is to host a World Cup. While this is the first ever World Cup hosted in the African continent, early signs indicate that goodwill and motivation can more than makeup for lack of experience.