SA urged to rally behind Bafana Bafana

South Africans in non-host cities will be afforded the opportunity to view games at various public viewing areas. Information can be found on the government website at www.gov.za and various Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) offices.

Acting CEO of GCIS and government spokesperson, Phumla Williams, said: "The Afcon tournament is pivotal for national pride in South Africa, therefore government calls on all citizens to support all games and events of the tournament."

Government has assured South Africans that the 2013 Afcon tournament will be safe and secure. Special measures have been put in place to handle any eventuality that may arise. Various simulation exercises have already been conducted by the police and military to put some precautionary measures in place ahead of the AFCON event.

"The Department of Health will be an official provider of health and medical services for the tournament. Working together with the host provincial Departments of Health and that of the host cities' Health Departments; the DoH is ready for all health and medical related matters for the tournament," Williams said.

Communicable disease outbreak response and management systems are also in place to respond effectively on any disease outbreak during the tournament. Health Promotion Officers will be deployed to all Ports of Entry to provide health information and services to visitors during the Afcon period.