Durban, South Africa, has been confirmed as the host of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, heralding the first ever international multi-sport games to take place on African soil.

The announcement – made at the Commonwealth Games Federation’s (CGF) general assembly in Auckland, New Zealand – was a formality as Durban was the only remaining bid city left in the process, following the withdrawal of Edmonton, Canada earlier this year.

Durban had previously considered bidding for the 2020 and 2024 Summer Olympics and hosted matches during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

The 2022 Commonwealth Games are set to begin on 18 July – birthday of late South African president Nelson Mandela – and finish on 30 July.