India Postpones First International Big Cat Alliance Summit Due to Ebola Concerns

May 22, 2026

Overview

India postponed the first International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit on 21 May 2026. The summit was originally scheduled for 1 June or 1–2 June 2026 in New Delhi. It was linked with the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit. The postponement happened because of an evolving Ebola health situation in parts of Africa. India took this decision in consultation with the African Union. The IBCA was formally launched on 12 March 2024 and currently has 25 member countries and five observer nations.

Latest News: IBCA Summit Deferred

On 21 May 2026, India announced the postponement of the first International Big Cat Alliance Summit. The summit was planned for early June 2026 – either on 1 June or over 1–2 June. The venue was New Delhi. The summit was closely linked with the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS IV). Both meetings were deferred together. Why? Because several African countries are important partners in big cat conservation. The Ebola virus outbreak in parts of Africa made it difficult for African leaders to travel. India put safety first.

What Is the International Big Cat Alliance?

The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a multilateral initiative. Its goal is to conserve seven big cat species found across the world. The alliance was formally established on 12 March 2024. India is the founding member and leader. The IBCA currently has 25 member countries and five observer nations. The member countries include India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Russia, and several African nations. Observers include international organisations and non-member countries that support big cat conservation.

Why Was the Summit Postponed?

The main reason is the Ebola virus outbreak. Parts of Africa, especially the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, are facing a public health emergency. The World Health Organization had already declared it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on 16 May 2026. Many African leaders and delegates were expected to attend the IBCA Summit. But travel restrictions and health risks made participation difficult. India consulted with the chairperson of the African Union and the African Union Commission. Both sides agreed that postponement was the safest decision.

The Link with the India-Africa Forum Summit

The IBCA Summit and the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit were planned together. Why? Because big cat conservation is important for both India and Africa. Africa is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and other big cats. Many African countries are members of the IBCA. The India-Africa Forum Summit is a diplomatic platform between India and African states. The fourth edition was also scheduled for late May to early June 2026. Both summits were deferred at the same time to avoid confusion and ensure African participation at a later, safer date.