2010 Provides Illegal Economic Opportunity for Street Children

The 2010 World Cup is expected to be a big economic opprtunity for black market work by street children, who are likely to sell drugs and sex work during the event, according to former street children.

The City of Cape Town has reportedly set aside money to remove street children during next year's event, but those rumors have not been verified.

Former street children Sigumbuzo Makhubo and Thozamile Ganjana, both 23, who are now working in the film industry and as "fixers" for international journalists, said street kids had plans to make big money during 2010.

Makhubo, who left the streets in 2005, said the children were ready for one big party.

"They know the visitors will use drugs and want sex. And they know they can make money from that."

Street kids' 2010 plan: drugs, sex=big bucks
Cape Argus
July 12, 2009

Weed Market Grows in Zimbabwe in Anticipation for the World Cup

This piece from the Mail & Guardian looks at the growth of the cannabis market in Zimbabwe, and the farmers who are hoping to benefit from the World Cup crowds.

In fact the dagga problem is so serious that it's even starting to interfere with the country's education system. Learners in some parts are said to be abandoning their studies so that they can guard their parents' dagga fields. Everyone wants to ensure that there is a good supply for 2010.

Northern Swaziland's mountainous terrain is the perfect spot to grow illegal crops. The "farmers" penetrate deep into the valleys and it's not easy for trespassers or unwelcome guests to get close.

Even the police find it difficult to deter the "farmers". There have been numerous raids and crop sprayings, but they have had little success.

While most of the dagga -- known as Swazi gold -- is sold to local users, there are reports of it being smuggled into South Africa, the rest of the Southern African Development Community region and overseas.

Source:
Green gold grass of home
Mail & Guardian
April 25, 2009