eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba hosted a high-level meeting of metro mayors from host cities for the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. The gathering, addressed by Local Organising Committee CEO Qondisa Ngwenya, focused on coordination among South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe. Durban affirmed its readiness to welcome large crowds safely.
Durban in KwaZulu-Natal hosted a meeting of cities from South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, co-hosts of the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. The event on April 24 marked 15 months until the tournament kicks off in October 2027. eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba led the briefing with metro mayors from the host cities.
Local Organising Committee CEO Qondisa Ngwenya addressed the group, emphasising enhanced coordination and accelerated preparations. Durban is one of seven South African cities set to host matches. Former Finance Minister Trevor Manuel serves as chairman of the Local Organising Committee Board, a role announced in August 2025.
Mayor Xaba stated, “We stand ready to receive thousands if not hundreds of thousands of people on our shores. We have demonstrated ourselves as a city that’s been able to receive visitors, both domestic and international visitors. This has been demonstrated by the numbers that have been recorded. There’s a surge in tourism numbers. We’ll ensure that when people are in the city they feel safe as well.”