While the sound of the cheering crowds are still lingering, it is imperative to reflect on the outcomes of the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

This edition of Mzansi News will therefore again focus on this historic event but with greater emphasis on the tournament's legacy, not only in South Africa but the impact thereof on the African continent and beyond.

The tournament kicked off in June (South African Youth month) and it is therefore no coincidence that the lasting legacy of the first World Cup to be hosted on African soil, as expressed by President Zuma during the 1Goal: Education for All Summit held in Pretoria on 11 July 2010, is education.

In line with this, Youth Zones have also been developed which combine football, computer literacy and life-skills training. The purpose is to create an enabling environment for young people in disadvantaged communities.

Congratulations to Madiba on his 92nd birthday! The staff and I trust that you had an enjoyable and exciting celebration!

South Africa remains excited by its find of an almost 200 million year old new species of hominid that some scientists believe is a direct ancestor of modern man.

In August, South Africans celebrate the role of women in society. Numerous events, big and small, commemorate the historic women's march to the Union Buildings in Pretoria on 9 August 1956. This march was one of the key moments in the struggle for equal rights and against racism when hundreds of women from all races and backgrounds signalled their protest against apartheid. This year's celebrations also coincide with the African Union's declaration of 2010 - 2010 as The African Women's Decade.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu on 22 July announced his retirement from public life later this year when he will turn 79. His personal achievements are so intimately interwoven into society and that it is impossible to say where the one end and the other begins. Who can forget his firm yet compassionate leadership during the darkest days of apartheid and his leadership during the sometimes heart wrenching testimonies at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission! And not least of all, his unspoilt sense of humour.

The Embassy has said farewell to Mr. Judika Tladi, First Secretary Political and Trade. Judika has been with the Embassy for four and a half years and we wish him a smooth transfer back to South Africa. His contribution to the work of the Embassy will be sorely missed. We also welcome our new colleagues Mr. Franklin Fortune (Counsellor: Administration), Ms Delores Mokate (First Secretary: Administration) and Mr. Freddie Jordaan (First Secretary: Political) and their families.

Ismail Coovadia
Ambassador