Harare — THE Fifa World Cup Trophy roadshow rolled into Zimbabwe last night with President Mugabe pledging to lead the country in according the iconic symbol of global sport the respect it deserved.

The trophy was received by a colourful crowd that waited patiently for hours before a chartered Coca-Cola jet touched down to wild cheers at the Harare International Airport.

In accordance with Zimbabwe's rich tradition, the trophy was first received by traditional leaders resplendent in their customary attire.

The traditional leaders, led by Chief Musarurwa, gave a cultural reception that included traditional dancing led by mhande dancers.

The chiefs handed over proceedings to President Mugabe, saying the 6,5kg solid gold trophy symbolised the return of plundered wealth and heritage which should be retained by African victory in South Africa.

Addressing the gathering, President Mugabe said Zimbabwe was honoured to host to the world's most prestigious sports trophy.

"On behalf of the inclusive Government and people of Zimbabwe, I feel greatly honoured to host the Fifa World Cup as it makes this historic journey on our continent, whose final stop will be South Africa.

"We are indebted to Fifa and Coca-Cola for affording Zimbabwean soccer followers this lifetime opportunity to accompany . . . the Fifa World Cup Trophy as it heads towards its destination for the 2010 Fifa World Cup to be held in South Africa," he said.

The President said soccer had evolved from being a part of social interaction and blossomed into an orderly engagement.

"It has had a long journey, growing from a spontaneous social event into the world's most popular sport, whose climax is the Fifa World Cup.

"Football, symbolised by this Fifa World Cup Trophy on display, has turned into a vehicle for the socio-economic and political transformation of societies."

President Mugabe said since its formation, Fifa had turned the game into a sport with universal appeal.

"Never keen to promote racial, sexual, spiritual or any further form of segregation, football has scaled the social order, perching itself at a position that promotes growth and development," he said.

The President said this had developed into a longstanding relationship between the game and the United Nations to become a "truly global" organisation with many areas of congruency.

"Today, Fifa and the United Nations co-operate in many interventions that cater for the traumatised, less privileged, orphaned, victims of natural disasters and civil strife, the poor and indeed the entirety of mankind."

The Fifa World Cup Trophy Tour, President Mugabe said, would remain a footnote in Africa and Zimbabwe's history to be shared with future generations.

The continent, he said, would -- during the tournament in South Africa -- showcase its diverse culture, social, economic and political traits as it mingled with visiting teams and fans of the "beautiful game".

He said the benefits accruing from hosting the tournament should be unlocked for the continent with Zimbabwe being first to host associated events and visiting teams.

"Zimbabwe looks forward to, indeed, extends an open invitation to top football nations . . . their multitude of fans who will enjoy the hospitality of Zimbabwe and her people through the '2010 Fan Embassy' . . .

The First Lady Amai Grace Mugabe and two of her children -- Robert Junior and Chatunga -- and several Government ministers and dignitaries witnessed the historic event.