Workers construct the main stage ahead of Saturday's Live 8 concert in London's Hyde Park

Final preparations are under way for the "Live 8" concerts aimed at rousing world support for African aid and debt relief.

Some 150 musical acts will perform Saturday in nine different cities, including London, Paris, Berlin, Rome, Moscow, Johnannesburg, Tokyo, Philadelphia and Barrie, Ontario, a town north of Toronto.

The concerts were organized by British rock singer Bob Geldof, who spearheaded the 1985 "Live Aid" concerts

Workers hoist a "Live 8 " banner next to the stage in Philadelphia

to raise money for African famine victims.

The event is timed to precede next week's G8 summit in Scotland, where world leaders are expected to discuss ways of reducing poverty in Africa. U2 lead singer Bono said this event is not about charity but about motivating young people to demand justice for Africa.

"Live 8" organizers plan to hold another concert in the Scottish city of Edinburgh on July 6.

All the concerts feature top musical acts, but the London show has the biggest line-up of stars, including Mariah Carey, Elton John, Madonna, U2 and former Beatle Paul McCartney.