Former Bafana Bafana and Leeds United skipper Lucas Radebe has been named as South African Tourism's 2010 Ambassador to the world.

According to BuaNews, Radebe's appointment was announced by Minister of Tourism Marthinus van Schalkwyk at the launch of the Brand Messaging Book for Tourism in Sandton on Thursday evening.

"We are truly privileged that a footballer of Lucas's stature and a human being of his calibre has agreed to partner with us to grow excitement about our destination. We look forward to working with him as 2010 approaches to spread the message of the anticipation and optimism sweeping our country," said Schalkwyk.

The minister described Radebe as an inspiration and a proud South African who loves traveling around the country.

"Now, more than ever, it is important to be an optimistic, dedicated South African with a 'can do' attitude and few people embody this spirit better than Lucas. He possesses all the qualities demanded of an ambassador.

"He loves South Africa. He loves travelling in South Africa. He knows our destination well, and he is proud of being a South African. He is truly an inspiration," the minister said.

"Rhooo" ? as he is known to his fans ? will work with SA Tourism between August 2009 and the end of the tournament to help deliver destination messages and to help grow interest in South Africa globally, not only as host of the FIFA spectacular, but also as an awesome and amazing holiday destination.

Commenting on his appointment, Radebe said he was excited, proud and honoured.

"Africa has waited a long, long time for the honour of hosting the world's biggest sporting spectacular. I am excited at the impending reality of welcoming the world's greatest footballers to my homeland.

"I am proud that South Africa will host hundreds of thousands of fans. I am honoured to be associated with South African Tourism and to be given an opportunity to work with them to raise the profile of my country not only as host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup," commented Radebe.