Africa Calls for Cooperation to Tackle Ebola Ahead of Summit
As the India-Africa Forum Summit approaches in New Delhi, the African Union has emphasized the need for united international efforts to address the ongoing Ebola virus outbreak affecting several countries, notably the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda.
In a statement, Nuur Mohamud Sheekh, spokesperson for the African Union Commission, highlighted that the summit will be a valuable opportunity to discuss strategies for managing future pandemics and building effective response systems.
“The Ebola outbreak is impacting various African nations, and it’s crucial to recognize that pandemics do not respect borders. We need collective international solidarity and cooperation,” Mr. Sheekh remarked in an email response.
This appeal from the African Union follows the World Health Organization’s declaration of the Ebola situations in DRC and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, has voiced serious concerns about the outbreak, stressing that Africa can triumph over this challenge through unity and coordinated action.
India, which has supported African nations during the COVID-19 pandemic, will host the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-IV) from May 28 to 31, with participation expected from member states of the African Union.
While the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has not commented on whether the Ebola situation will impact the summit’s proceedings, the U.S. Embassy in Uganda has temporarily suspended visa operations in light of the outbreak.
However, Mr. Sheekh is optimistic that the summit will proceed without disruption, asserting that it will be a significant platform for enhancing Africa-India partnerships, especially in public health preparedness, biotechnology, and pandemic response.
“Africa will greatly benefit from closer collaboration and knowledge-sharing with India to create resilient health systems prepared for future health challenges,” he added.
