Transport Minister Jeff Radebe announced on Sunday that South Africa would be investing R170bn in developing public transport for the 2010 World Cup and beyond.

This announcement was made at a press conference in Johannesburg, which formed part of a tour conducted for FIFA Secretary General, Jerome Valcke.

Radebe said that the investment would be used for airport and road upgrades and the formation of new rail and bus systems.

The major overhaul of the country's transport system would be leaving a legacy after the 2010 World Cup.

“We are driven by a desire to make sure that SA becomes a destination of choice for tourists and business,” said Radebe. “The World Cup in 2010 is a catalyst for the development of our system because we need to meet FIFA requirements. But the huge sum of money we are investing will also ensure a lasting legacy for our people."

"It is always a concern that events like these are put together at huge cost and then the infrastructure is not used. What we have seen today is that all these transport systems will change the face of South Africa. This is the legacy of the World Cup, “said Valcke.

The R170 billion spend includes R70 billion for roads, R20 billion for airport expansion programmes and construction, R18 billion on passenger rail, R25 billion on the Gautrain rapid rail link, and R26 billion on freeways. In total the amount allocated specifically for FIFA World Cup projects is R13.6 billion.