When President Jacob Zuma with King Goodwill Zwelethini and a host of dignitaries officially opened the new King Shaka International Airport and unveiled the stunning sculpture of King Shaka surrounded by his Nguni cattle, Africa!Ignite's craft market and beaded tapestries were right there.

The spaza chic Khanyisa craft market is an initiative of Africa!Ignite, supported by ACSA and the Dube TradePort to showcase the authentic craft of KwaZulu-Natal during the World Cup and beyond, and provide economic opportunities to crafters across the province.

In addition, nineteen beautifully-beaded tapestries created by crafters from across KwaZulu-Natal were prominently displayed at the opening, and will be on display in the airport building for the duration of the World Cup.

Twelve of these tapestries were created by communities from KwaZulu-Natal's 11 districts in 2007, with Netherlands Embassy funding, and an additional five by South Durban communities.

Africa!Ignite's ongoing partnership with ACSA has seen the creation of two additional tapestries by communities from the Ilembe district where the new airport is situated. These tapestries celebrate the district's history as well as communities' vision for a future that will have the new airport as part of it.

Together, the craft market and tapestries will give visitors insight into the rich, craft traditions of this province.