India postpones Africa summit over Ebola scare

India and the African Union have decided to postpone the Fourth India–Africa Forum Summit (IAFS IV), which was scheduled to take place in New Delhi from May 28 to 31, 2026, amid the evolving public health situation in parts of Africa linked to the Ebola scare.

In a joint statement, the two sides said the Government of India and the African Union had been working closely on convening the summit and had exchanged views on the evolving health situation in parts of Africa.

They reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation in strengthening public health preparedness and response capacities across the continent, including through support to Africa CDC and relevant national institutions.

India also reiterated its solidarity with the peoples and governments of Africa and expressed readiness to contribute to Africa CDC-led efforts aimed at addressing the evolving health situation, in line with the shared commitment to an Africa-led response.

The statement said consultations were held between the Government of India, the Chairperson of the African Union, and the African Union Commission regarding the holding of the summit and associated activities, while keeping in mind the need to ensure full participation and engagement of African leaders and stakeholders.

Following the consultations, both sides agreed that it would be advisable to convene the Fourth India–Africa Forum Summit at a later date.

The two sides said new dates for the summit and its associated meetings would be finalised through mutual consultations and communicated in due course.

India and Africa also reaffirmed their longstanding partnership based on solidarity, mutual respect, South-South cooperation, and a shared commitment to peace, development, prosperity, and the well-being of their peoples.

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