Dar Es Salaam — AT last the long awaited authentic, solid-gold, FIFA World Cup trophy arrives in Dar es Salaam today, as part of its all Africa tour.

The Minister for Information, Culture and Sports, George Mkuchika, will lead Tanzanians to welcome the world's most coveted sports icon and symbol of football supremacy at Mwalimu Nyerere International Airport.

Coca-Cola Marketing Manager, Rita Tsehai, told journalists yesterday that the trophy will then be directed to National Stadium, where President Jakaya Kikwete will grace the introduction ceremony.

Rita said that at the National Stadium, thousands of fans are expected to turn up at the venue to witness the trophy and take souvenir photo. In addition, she said that the football fans will view a special 3-D movie showcasing memorable moments of the FIFA World Cup, participate in interactive displays and enjoy other entertainments.

Rita said that on Friday the trophy that is coming in the country for the second time since 2006 will go to Zanzibar, where Isles people will have an opportunity to see and take photo with the trophy.

On his part, Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) General Secretary, Fredrick Mwakalebela, urged football fans across the city to turn up at the National Stadium and see he trophy. He thanked the Coca-Cola Company for bringing in the trophy for the second time, saying it showed the company's commitment at seeing the country football prosper.

He said that they will take the tour as a challenge and motivation, to set the strategies that will see the nation play in a World Cup final within the near future.

This year's trophy tour is the longest ever global tour, with FIFA and Coca-Cola taking the real solid gold trophy up to 86 countries during a 225-day journey, which allow fans to enjoy a rare close up view of the trophy.

The second part of the FIFA World Cup tour by Coca-Cola will see the trophy visit additional countries from January to April, 2010. The tour has been developed through an exclusive partnership between FIFA and Coca-Cola. The company is a FIFA Partner.