800 Ugandans in world cup for world cup

Kampala

One interesting caution in a fan guide booklet to this summer’s World Cup in South Africa goes: “No excessive noise, megaphones, hooters or gas-powered horns.” It continues, in bold: “Vuvuzelas are allowed.” Funny? But who cares. At least 90,000 fans at the opening match between South Africa and Mexico at Soccer City Stadium won’t care.

The more than 800 Ugandans who have so far travelled to South Africa to be part of this global soccer bonanaza won’t mind either. “This mission has received 808 applications since the beginning of May 2010, including all purposes of travel,” Mr Michaël Schoeman, the First Secretary in charge of Immigration and Civic Affairs at the South African High Commission, Kampala, said. Odd enough, one would expect upward visa applications with the tournament kicking off tomorrow but the registered 808 is 165 less requests than last year (973) this time, before the Confederations Cup.

The mission by yesterday had 37 event visa applications specific to non-South Africans with valid FIFA tickets and the number is expected to increase. But numerous people have applied for the normal pass, also with the purpose of going to watch the showpiece according to Mr Schoeman. The exact numbers were not readily available but Mr Schoeman says the mission expects more applications in the coming weeks.

Higher number
“An insignificant number were denied visas due to submission of invalid documentation,” he said. Ugandans who are in S. Africa for the tournament are projected to be much higher as figures provided by the mission exclude journalists. “Most certified journalists travelled to South Africa on their accreditation letters and did not need a visa and, therefore, did not pass through this office,” Mr Schoeman, explained.

South African Airlines, the prime transporters to the Rainbow country, could not disclose the number of fans they’ve flown out so far insisting they will do so after the competition. Ignie Igundura, the Civil Aviation Authority spokesperson, also tells this newspaper the skyline at Entebbe International Airport remains normal despite the occasion. “There is not much excitement. It’s the same frequency of flights. May be not many Ugandans haven’t travelled.” Six Ugandans have already confirmed with Akamba coaches, one of the companies transporting fans by road. “The first lot leaves Nairobi for South Africa on June 19 and the second on 25,” says Akamba country manager Japheth Kimilu.

Kampala coach has registered three so far and according to company marketing team leader, Eunice Arau, the first lot that didn’t include any Ugandans embarked on a six-day journey from Nairobi on June 3. The other groups leave on June 19 and 22 respectively.