The Fifth Annual AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2026), which was originally scheduled to take place here later this month, has been postponed due to the Ebola outbreak in Africa.
The event was due to take place from July 29-31 and was being organised by the Egypt-based African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the St. Kitts and Nevis government. The event was intended to serve as the regional economic anchor and deep-water trade logistics hub connecting Africa and the Caribbean.
The multi-million-dollar initiative included several specific intended projects, namely the US$40 million deep-water port and 10-square-kilometre Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for Basseterre. According to an official statement here, the decision to postpone the event was taken following the latest updates from regional, continental and international public health authorities regarding the evolving public health situation in some parts of Africa. No date has been given for when it could possible be held.
‘Out of caution, and with the health, safety and well-being of delegates, speakers, partners, sponsors and other participants in mind, Afreximbank and the government of St. Kitts and Nevis have agreed that the deferral of the Forum is the most responsible course of action at this time,’ the statement said.
To date, the Ebola disease outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been confirmed in Ituri, Nord-Kivu, and Sud-Kivu provinces. Cases related to the DRC outbreak also have been reported in Uganda’s capital of Kampala.
There have been 1,354 cases and 401 deaths. Several Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries have mplemented enhanced health screenings and potential quarantines for visitors who have been in the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan within 30 days of arrival.
The statement here said that both parties ‘recognise and appreciate the significant interest, support and commitment demonstrated by delegates, sponsors, partners and stakeholders in preparation for ACTIF2026.
‘The decision to defer the Forum was not taken lightly, and Afreximbank and the government of St. Kitts and Nevis sincerely regret any inconvenience this may cause,’ the statement said, adding hat further updates will be communicated in due course through the official channels of Afreximbank and the government of St. Kitts and Nevis.