FIFA says only 18 African nations have safe stadiums

JOHANNESBURG, Aug 6 (Reuters) Only 18 African countries visited by FIFA have soccer stadiums safe enough to allow them to host World Cup qualifiers, the world governing body said today.

FIFA officials completed an inspection of 50 of the continent's 53 football playing nations in June. They did not visit Kenya, Somalia or World Cup hosts South Africa.

The inspections follow FIFA's decision last year to insist on better safety standards at international matches, particularly World Cup qualifiers.

FIFA have also embarked on a programme to install artificial turf in at least one stadium in all African countries except South Africa.

No dates have been set for next year's Africa qualifiers.

REUTERS AE RAI2356