Why in the News?
India and the African Union postponed the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit due to the evolving Ebola public health situation in parts of Africa.
Key Highlights
- The summit was scheduled from:
- May 28 to 31, 2026
- Decision taken after consultations between:
- Government of India
- African Union Commission
Reason for Postponement
- Concerns over Ebola outbreak in:
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Uganda
- The World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC)
India’s Response
India expressed:
- Solidarity with African countries
- Support for an “Africa-led” response to the crisis
Historical Context
- The previous India-Africa Forum Summit was held in 2015.
- It too had been delayed due to an Ebola outbreak.
Related Development
- The International Big Cat Alliance Summit scheduled in New Delhi was also postponed because several African countries participate in the initiative.
Importance of India-Africa Forum Summit
The summit strengthens cooperation in:
- Trade and investment
- Health
- Development partnership
- Capacity building
- Energy and technology
About Ebola
- Severe viral disease affecting humans and primates.
- Spread through: Direct contact with infected bodily fluids
What is PHEIC?
A Public Health Emergency of International Concern is declared by WHO when an outbreak:
- Poses international health risks
- Requires coordinated global response
[2015] Among the following, which were frequently mentioned in the news for the outbreak of Ebola virus recently?
(a) Syria and Jordan
(b) Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia
(c) Philippines and Papua New Guinea
(d) Jamaica, Haiti and Surinam
