The World Social Forum Cotonou 2026 is well underway. Since the inaugural meeting in Kathmandu and subsequent coordination meetings, the international organizing process has been significantly strengthened. The Mexico City meeting, which brought together delegates from over 80 countries, finalized the main thematic orientations and the preparation schedule. African civil society organizations are playing a central role in this dynamic, driven by the conviction that Africa has a vital contribution to make to the global debate on alternatives. Cotonou, a vibrant city in Benin, is preparing to welcome thousands of participants from five continents for five days of debates, workshops, and meetings from August 4 to 8, 2026.