After a long wait, local football fans will finally breath a sigh of relief as the coveted Fifa World Cup trophy touches down on Thursday morning at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

The trophy arrives at 11 am from Rwanda and would be received by the country’s two principals President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga in an elaborate reception at the airport.

Kenya is the fifth nation in East and Central Africa and the 36th in Africa to host the trophy on its 70-day epic journey across Africa.

"Due to the high level of interest that the football icon has attracted, Coca-Cola is working very closely with airport personnel and other authorities to ensure security and smooth flow of the trophy’s visit," said Coca-Cola Senior Franchise Brand Manager Pamela Mutua.

During the Kenya tour, thousands of ticketed fans are expected to turn up at the Nyayo Stadium on Saturday to see the iconic trophy and take a souvenir photo.

"I would like to urge each person to be patient as everyone would have a chance to take a photo with the Cup at Nyayo Stadium since it will be there from 8am to 3.30pm when it leaves for Kampala, Uganda. In addition, the fans would also view a special 3-D movie showcasing memorable moments of the Fifa World Cup, participate in interactive displays and enjoy other entertainment," said Mutua.

The first leg of the tour draws to a close on December 3 in Cape Town, South Africa, the eve of the 2010 Fifa World Cup finals draw. The second part of the trophy tour would see it visit additional countries.

|   |    |   Add Comment |    Comment (1)