The hosting of the 2022 Commonwealth Games has been awarded to Durban in South Africa, the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) announced at its General Assembly in September.
The announcement made history, as the Commonwealth Games have never been held in Africa before. The event will take place from 18-30 July 2022, kicking off on Nelson Mandela’s birthday.
Durban was left as the only contender to host the contest after the Canadian city of Edmonton withdrew, due to the country’s current economic difficulties.
Outgoing CGF President Prince Tunku Imran said: “It gives me great pleasure to welcome the South African city of Durban as proud hosts of the 22nd Commonwealth Games. As a movement we stand together to support the very first games on African soil.”
CGF Vice-President and South African Olympic Committee President Gideon Sam said that the event’s legacy would empower the nation’s young people.
“The fundamental premise of our submission is that the Games will provide the opportunity at both an economic and social level – in particular the development and inspiration of young people not only in South Africa but the rest of the Commonwealth,” he added.
The opening ceremony will be held at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The 2018 Commonwealth Games will take place in Australia’s Gold Coast.
