Heavy security as UNCTAD kicks off in Nairobi

Several roads in Nairobi have been closed as the capital hosts the 14th United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) starting today.

Heavy security is also expected around the city, as President Uhuru Kenyatta and United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon are set to officiate at the opening ceremony of the global gathering.

Kenya is hosting the event for the second time, with 80 ministers and 4,800 delegates from 194 countries expected to attend.

The leaders will discuss sustainable investments, with various investors sharing the challenges they have faced in developing countries; they will also discuss the opportunities available.

Delegates will also discuss a wide range of issues affecting the global economy, including ways in which African countries can reduce over dependence on the sale of commodities.

The conference will bring together Heads of State and Government, ministers and other prominent players from the business world, civil society and academia to tackle global trade and economic development issues.

The week-long Conference will feature ministerial debates, high-level round tables, thematic events, a World Investment Forum and a Civil Society Forum, among other events.