World Cup's over, now what?

Congratulations to South Africa, the African country successfully hosted the biggest event in the world. Although I am not in South Africa yet, all reports have cited a great tournament filled with superb atmosphere and fairly efficient delivery of services. It was not a perfect tournament, but put into perspective the event was a phenomenal success. It certainly more than trumped the negative comments of naysayers.

Problems abound all over the continent, but what the World Cup does is provide inspiration to Africans and to the rest of the world. A reflection of Africa's can do attitude! Too much attention has historically been placed on problems in media outlets all around the world. I hope the successful hosting of the World Cup by South Africa will lead to more positive outcomes emerging from the various initiatives around the continent seeking positive change in less well to do societies.

There are increasing number of organizations working in Africa and around thge world that use soccer as a means of engagement in places where the game is wildly popular and where various problems now require inventive solutions. Streetfootball world is a FIFA partner that seeks to link organizations applying innovative solutions using the sport around the world.

Here is how they describe themselves on their website:

"Streetfootballworld is a social profit organiZation that links relevant actors in the field of Development through Football. Established in 2002, the organization encourages global partnerships for development in order to contribute to positive social change.

The streetfootballworld network comprises more than 80 local initiatives worldwide. With the network's support, streetfootballworld develops approaches to social challenges by working with governments, businesses and NGOs, and providing advice on development, investment and business strategy." http://www.streetfootballworld.org/

Grassroot Soccer is part of the streetfootballworld network. A quick look at their website reveals the many different initiatives around the world making positive changes through sport.

Alongside FIFA streetfootballworld is working on the Football For Hope program which uses sports to help achieve the United Nations Millennium Development Goals.