NAIROBI, Kenya, Nov 24 - President Mwai Kibaki is due to leave the country for Port of Spain in Trinidad and Tobago on Tuesday to attend this year's Commonwealth Heads of State and Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The Commonwealth is an association of 53 independent states consulting and cooperating in the common interests of their people in the promotion of international understanding.

This year's meeting is of special significance to member countries as it comes at a time when the association is marking 60 years of existence as a common entity. It is also important to East Africa because the meeting is expected to deliberate on Rwanda's application to join the Commonwealth as the 54th member state.

Nearly two billion people now live in the Commonwealth. Half of that population is under 25. It is with this in mind that the theme of this year's meeting is "The Commonwealth at 60 -serving a new generation".

The role of sports in youth development is expected to feature prominently during talks among the Heads of State and government.

This year's meeting will also focus on equity, sustainability and partnership in the development of Commonwealth nations.

The official opening and cultural ceremony will take place on Friday November 27th.  Heads of State and government will then hold a series of formal and informal sessions during the period of the meeting.
                                                      
The plane carrying the President and his entourage is expected to depart Jomo Kenyatta International airport shortly before midnight.

President Kibaki is expected back in the country later next week.