Durban (PTI): A majority of South Africans believe that the country is ready to host the 2010 football world cup event, which will have a "monumental impact" on its tourism sector.

Surveys conducted during the week-long tourism exhibition 'TourismIndaba' showed that 68 per cent of participants believe South Africa was ready for the 2010 World Cup while 87 per cent said 2010 would have a monumental impact on tourism to the country.

Moeketsi Mosala, Chief Executive of South African Tourism, said the country was expecting 4,50,000 football fans from around the world to visit the country for the FIFA World Cup tournament.

The government has already taken measures to change the perception that the country is an unsafe tourist destination.

"There is a long-term commitment from our government to improve security. If we believe our citizens are safe, then we can make it better for our guests. We are absolutely aware (of the perception)," he said.

Mosala said the 'TourismIndaba', which concluded on Tuesday was a huge success.

"More than 13,222 tourism role players from many parts of the globe have participated in the week-long event. The Indaba was one of the largest tourism marketing events on the African calendar and one of the top three 'must visit' events of its kind on the global calendar," he said.

"It showcases the widest variety of Southern Africa's best tourism products, and attracts international visitors and media from across the globe", the official said.