The honour on Fifa is to demonstrate South Africa's appreciation of the decision of soccer's world governing body to grant South Africans in particular and Africans in general the highly sought-after rights to host the money-spinning and most popular World Cup Soccer tournament in 2010.

The coveted gold honour is conferred mainly to foreign Heads of State and foreign nationals who have displayed unwavering solidarity, friendship to South Africa or contributed in the country's fight against apartheid.

Director-General in the Presidency Frank Chikane, said Mbeki's decision to adorn the world soccer governing bigwigs with the honour was another contribution to the political and economic development of South Africa.

This will be Fifa's executive second trip to the Union Buildings, less than six months after attending Mbeki's second and final inauguration on Freedom Day, 27 April.

Chikane said Fifa's executive may send a representative to receive the award on their behalf. South Africa's 2010 bid executives will also be honoured for their campaign to secure the rights to host the tournament.

South Africa beat Egypt, Morocco and Libya during the contest to host world soccer's most spectacular event.

South Africa's team led by Danny Jordan, Irvin Khoza and Molefi Oliphant will receive the gold order of Ikhamanga for "displaying great wisdom and leadership", according to a statement by the Presidency.

European soccer boss Lennart Johanssen is also expected to receive the Companion of OR Tambo order for his "excellent contribution to the reconstruction and development of the African continent" and "fighting for fairness and justice in the Soccer World Cup bid process".

Several South Africans will also be honoured for their bravery, exceptional contribution to the liberation struggle, arts and culture, sports, science and technology fields.

Source: BuaNews