High expectations for WEF on Africa

The gathering, scheduled to be held in Dar es Salaam from Wednesday to Friday (5-7 May) under the theme "rethinking Africa's growth strategy", will bring together over 1000 participants from 85 African countries, including President Jacob Zuma.

The meeting will provide leaders with a platform to discuss how they are facing up to the challenge and using the economic crisis as an opportunity to redesign a sustainable roadmap for Africa's future.

According to Zuma's office, during the talks South Africa will, among others things, highlight the importance of trade, industrialisation, agricultural development, infrastructure development and innovation, as key drivers for sustained economic growth.

South Africa, which is the economic powerhouse of Africa, leading the continent in industrial output and mineral production, will also promote and obtain support for Africa's regional economic integration agenda.

Emphasis, the presidency says, will also be placed on Africa's role in transforming international financial architecture to sustain growth post the global financial and economic crisis.

"The World Economic Forum presents an opportunity to engage the continental political and business leaders in partnerships to shape global, regional and industry agendas," it said.

Zuma will be accompanied by seven cabinet ministers and senior government officials.

The forum is an independent international organisation committed to improving the state of the world by engaging leaders in partnerships to shape global, regional and industry agendas.

The WEF on Africa is renowned for its informal style that engenders frank and open conversation among the most influential leaders with a stake in the region.