In the marketplace

Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn met with a cross-section of Tanzanians today to get their perspective of how things are on the ground.

He visited a disability hospital, interacted with students and faculty at the University of Dar es Salaam, and met with small traders at a vibrant, bustling marketplace.

At each stop, he reiterated the message that the global financial crisis is likely to have a negative impact on Africa, which he described as a "third wave", and called on countries and the international community to address the policy challenges and financing gap. Ordinary Tanzanians were frank and forthright in offering their life stories and challenges.

At the University of Dar es Salaam, which was held in a townhall-style setting, there was a lively discussion on the Fund's role in Africa, the challenges of globalization, and how Africa should insulate itself from the current crisis. The audience did not hold back in asking tough questions and the result was an interesting dialogue that perhaps went a long way in addressing misperceptions about the Fund.

In contrast, the MD's visit to the marketplace was all about getting a pulse of the place. He was guided by Rakesh Rajani, a well-known local civil society activist introduced the MD to the marketplace and introduced him to a range of people. The conference opens tomorrow in a more formal setting, at the bank of tanzania's impressive new conference center.

The Managing Director's various visits today served as a perfect curtainraiser to the critical issues that will be discussed on Tuesday and wednesday.

For more photos from the day, check out the photo gallery.