JOHANNESBURG, (Reuters Life!) – South Africa plans  to have a million flags flying next week to maintain the  momentum of the World Cup despite the host nation being bundled  out of the tournament.

A “One Million Flags March” to ensure that fans stick with  the World Cup is planned for July 3, said Arthur Mafokate, one  of South Africa’s prominent musicians, adding that the event  will be 15 days before the birthday of President Nelson Mandela.

The march will focus on South Africans, raising and flying  their flags and those of other participating countries, to show  their continued support for Africa’s first World Cup.

FIFA and local organisers have long been concerned that  South Africa’s early elimination, would reduce not only the  crowds and passion but also dilute the unifying effect of the  tournament in a country still torn by racial and social  divisions.

This has been compounded by the fact that six African  countries participating in the World Cup, four including South  Africa, Cameroon, Nigeria and Algeria have been knocked out in  the first phase.

Mafokate told Reuters yesterday that the “One Million  Flags March” would be held on July 3 in Soweto, and if  successful may be extended to other parts of the country.

“Let’s come together and celebrate with the world. The World  Cup is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Mafokate.

Asked what does this World Cup mean to local artists,  Mafokate said: “It’s like a key opening a door for the whole  world to know about us.”

He was confident that the march will attract one million  people in Soweto, which has a population of more than 4 million,  and hopeful that people from surrounding areas will join.

Somali-born poet, rapper and musician K’naan will be  performing his popular song “Wavin Flag” at FIFA Fan Fest in  Elkah stadium in Soweto, where the march will end.