51 >
for the 2010 FIFA World Cup responded to needs that were identified long ago. We should be looking for metamorphosis; the emergence of something new and exciting from the soul of our cities. This requires a new game plan, not business as usual. And certainly not decisions based on maximising international boasting rights.” “The notion of a world-class city were seen by some as the epitome of bland conformity, turning Cape Town into the Starbucks of urban Africa. Indeed, importing ideas and projects without adapting them to our context provided an excuse to compromise our own needs to serve an external audience.” Considering the pre-2010 FIFA World Cup euphoria, Makeka says: “It could be argued, however, that world-class means excelling at the ordinary as well as the extraordinary. And it is only by adopting this definition that we can create a World Cup experience that is uniquely African while giving birth to a more human city.” “We need to do ordinary things with as much skill, passion and flare as we apply to showcase projects.
And we can, but we need more focus. If we can build stadiums, then we can build houses, install toilets and plan streets to serve people first. What’s good for tourists should be good for us too.” “Imagine trains that run on time, bus stops that show schedules and locations, parks that are child friendly, streets where parents can safely push a pram and car guards that are friendly and helpful. Imagine information kiosks distributed throughout the city offering tourism advice, a help desk for emergencies, and a friendly face in time of need. Imagine a city that is as safe and universally accessible for the youth and the elderly as it is for citizens in their prime.” Concluding with the question: Would you care to share any words of encouragement and Lessons Learned to aspiring African architects?, Makeka responds: “Persevere. We were the first architects. We shall be the last.” <