(ATR) Britain’s minister for sport and the Olympics says Africa is well capable of hosting a future Games.
Robertson was speaking after a whirlwind morning tour around the continent at Africa Village, now situated in London’s Kensington Gardens.
South Africa already hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and Robertson believes the greatest show on earth could well be next.
"There is a real empathy and feeling for sport across Africa," he said. "There is no reason why it shouldn’t happen in the future."
Addressing delegates before the extraordinary general assembly of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa, Robertson was quick to thank the continent for its role in bringing the Games to London.
"A lot of you here helped us to win the Olympics, and we thank you for the confidence you showed in us," he said. "Also, we could not have delivered the Games without the help of many friends from Africa.
"And I also say a huge thank-you for the help you have given us in providing a legacy of the Games," he added, highlighting the importance of delivering the International Inspiration program in a number of African countries.
The minister’s guide for his trip around the continent was General Lassana Palenfo, president of ANOCA.
"This village puts across the wonderful feeling of diversity that exists across the continent," said Robertson as he wandered around tents for countries from Egypt to Cameroon, from Libya to Nigeria.
It’s the first time African countries have come together in this way at the Games, and plans are already underway to repeat the exercise at Rio 2016.
Ethiopian Joy
There was no hiding the joy on the face of Ethiopian IOC member Dagmawit Girmay Berhane the morning after the triumph of national hero Tirunesh Dibaba in the women’s 10,000 meters on Friday night.
Speaking before the ANOCA meeting at Africa Village, she said: "That was the perfect start on the first day of the athletics competition. The best thing about it was that it was a real triumph for team work.
"We expected it, we never doubted it and I was there and it was so exciting."
Berhane added that there had been great joy and celebrations at home following the gold medal run.
Dibaba was defending the crown that she won in Beijing four years ago when she doubled up in the 5,000m and 10,000m runs.
Reported by Matt Horn
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