The Indian Premier League tournament will bring an expected investment of about R1-billion to South Africa, said president Kgalema Motlanthe on Saturday.

"The envisaged financial investment that will flow into South Africa over the next few weeks is expected to be about R1-billion," Motlanthe said at the tournament's opening ceremony in Cape Town.

He also said the IPL was providing R10-million in scholarship funds to 300 students and 32 schools.

Motlanthe said South Africa would never forget its shared history with India in the struggle for justice and human dignity.

"Together, we formed the greatest partnership so that India, Brazil and South Africa could stand together and navigate a path through the unpredictable waters of globalisation."

Motlanthe said choosing South Africa to host the tournament was a "tremendous vote of confidence", but also inspired serious reflection.

"We must extend our sympathy and support to the people of India and the sub-continent who have experienced the trauma of wanton and unwarranted terrorist attacks by groups who cannot resolve differences in peaceful, tolerant and respectful ways.

Nevertheless, he said choosing South Africa as a host showed confidence in its ability to host the IPL, the Confederations Cup and the 2010 Fifa Soccer World Cup.

"It is a vote of confidence in our facilities, our telecommunications capability and our cricket-loving fans who have already snapped up all the tickets for the IPL matches.

"It is a vote of confidence in our many institutions to manage various major events, and run a peaceful election at the same time."

Motlanthe said the unique aspect of the IPL tournament was that it meant some opponents now became teammates and visa versa.

"In entertaining us, the IPL teaches us this important lesson in life: no task is too big, no problem is insurmountable, no disagreement or rivalry is permanent, and every challenge is an opportunity to demonstrate our character and resilience.

Motlanthe also said he wanted to remind South Africans to "take a break from cricket" and vote on Wednesday in the national elections.

"I cannot tell you who to vote for, but I can tell you to do so peacefully," he said.