Author: Nation Reporter
Date: December 19, 2006
Type of article: News
Source: The Daily Nation - only available online by registration and paid subscription fee

---

Former South African president Nelson Mandela and his Zambian counterpart, Dr Kenneth Kaunda, are expected to attend a forum in Nairobi next month.

The World Social Forum, to be attended by more than 100,000 delegates, will be held at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, from January 20.

The theme of the five-day conference is People's Struggles, People's Alternative. Most of the delegates will come from East Africa. 

They will discuss issues ranging from free trade agreements, HIV/Aids, peace, women and conflicts, among others.

Slum residents

Hundreds of residents of Nairobi slums of Kibera, Huruma, Korogocho and Mathare have registered to attend.
Yesterday, the executive committee announced they would hold a public rally at Uhuru Park, during the opening and closing ceremonies.

Speaking on their behalf, Mr Oduor On'gwen said they had made arrangements with local and international organisations to support the delegates by offering them accommodation.

Other committee members are Chico Whitaker, Moema Miranda and Mr Raffaela Bolini, all from Brazil. Others are Flavio (Italy), Amit Sengupta (India) and Fatma Alloo (Tanzania).

The organisers said one of the objectives of the forum, which dates back to 1998, is to liberate the world from domination by multi-nationals.