Jacob Zuma meets with Klaus Schwab, executive chairman of the WEF

The 20th forum, which is sort of a regional preparation for the annual WEF in Davos, will redesign a sustainable roadmap for Africa's future within the new global economy.

Themed "Rethinking Africa's Growing Strategy", the forum will examine the current, changing global landscape and identify the opportunities that can unlock Africa's growth potential and the barriers to social and economic progress in the coming years.

Regional expansion, growth opportunities, risk and education are key issues that will be high on the agenda.

WEF discussions will also address how a more conducive business climate and regulatory reforms can encourage both local and international investments and most importantly, how low-carbon, sustainable development plans can be designed for Africa's economic drivers including its natural resources, agriculture and tourism.

Nearly 1 000 participants from 85 countries will attend the forum, which is being held for the first time in East Africa.

Economists had advised that the delegates should look beyond just the "talk" and come up with concrete implementation plans.

Some economic analysts have said the forum should focus on the Millennium Development Goals, among other things.

They also hinted that the poor should be at the centre of the dialogue and look at how they can use the commodity price doom to expedite infrastructure development and education.