The inquiry started on a sombre note when a minute of silence was observed for the victims.

"I hope that the commission will give us a way forward because I lost my husband and the sole breadwinner at home," said one 29-year-old mother of two.

More than 100 people were injured in the stampede on April 11 at Johannesburg's Ellis Park Stadium when an estimated 75 000 spectators tried to cram into a venue that can only accommodated 60 000.

The commission will investigate the causes of the tragedy and make recommendations to prevent a repeat of the disaster. It is headed by High Court Judge Bernard Ngoepe.

Sports Minister Ngconde Balfour said he does not expect the disaster to affect his country's bid for the 2010 World Cup.

The hearing is aired live on SABC TV.