Makarapa
The Makarapa (from Makarapa Helme , singular: Lekarapa) is an originally decorated plastic helmet . It belongs to the typical South African fan equipment. Sports fans spend hours painting or pasting their Makarapa in the colors and the coat of arms of their club. In addition, huge glasses or signs with slogans are often worn. Although it is not known exactly who invented the Makarapa, the origin of the idea is mostly attributed to Alfred Baloyi. There are now several Makarapa artists in South Africa who can earn a modest income with their creations.
The origin of the term Makarapa goes back to the late 1970s and early 1980s. Originally this was used colloquially in South Africa for the immigrant mine workers. Today the term is synonymous with decorated miner's helmets. The Makarapa fulfills three purposes: It is a fan article , an individual work of art and protection in the stadium, for example in front of beer bottles.
The Makarapa was already present at the 2010 World Cup in Zurich . In September 2009, Sepp Blatter was given a Makarapa as a present during a visit to FIFA.