June 11 marks the historic opening of the first FIFA World Cup ever held in Africa. Host nation South Africa will shoulder the expectations of the entire continent as it tries to show a positive image of Africa to the world. South Africa has the largest economy in Africa, and hopes hosting the Cup will impress investors and drive tourism. But the financial burden is heavy for the hosts. Stadiums have to be built, transportation upgraded, and expensive security measures taken in order to ensure a successful event.
How will hosting the FIFA World Cup transform South Africa, and the rest of the African continent? How has the world's most popular sport become a part of African culture?
Ni hao, you're listening to 
People In the Know, bringing you insights into the headline news in China and around the world, online at crienglish.com, and here on China Radio International.
In today's program we'll discuss how the World Cup could change Africa, and how Africa could change the World Cup.
First, we'll speak with Professor Peter Alegi. He's a professor of African history at Michigan State University and also author of numerous books on soccer in Africa, and is currently living and working in South Africa.
(Conversation with Prof. Alegi)
And after a short break, we'll talk to an urban planning expert on how the World Cup will change South Africa¡¯s cities.
Ni hao, you're listening to People In the Know, bringing you insights into the headline news in China and around the world, online at crienglish.com here on China Radio International. I'm Thomas Rippe in Beijing. For many Beijing residents the most lasting impact of hosting the Olympics is the city's improved public transportation. South Africa has also invested heavily on transportation infrastructure projects that could transform the nation. But there could be other, more subtle changes as well. For more we go now to Professor Richard Tomlinson, Chair in Urban Planning in the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning at the University of Melbourne.
(Conversation with Prof. Tomlinson)
And with that we close out this edition of People In the Know, online at crienglish.com here on China Radio International.
