EBOLA: AU–EU leaders strengthen cooperation on health, humanitarian response

Africa, Europe-Asia, Health

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (NPA) — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, today received H.E. Hadja Lahbib, EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, at AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa.

The meeting underscored the enduring strength of the AU–EU strategic partnership, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to solidarity and a shared vision for peace, resilience, and sustainable development.

Discussions focused on joint efforts to address health and humanitarian emergencies, including the ongoing Ebola outbreak, as well as broader peace and security challenges across the continent. The AU Chairperson emphasised the importance of strengthening Africa’s health security architecture, advancing health sovereignty, and enhancing continental capacities in vaccine production, preparedness, and response.

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He also highlighted the humanitarian implications of the situation in eastern DRC, stressing the need for ceasefire efforts, humanitarian access, and support for affected communities.

Commissioner Lahbib reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to work closely with the AU and institutions such as the Africa CDC to bolster preparedness and support Africa‑led responses. She also underscored the importance of deepening cooperation on humanitarian diplomacy and international humanitarian law.

The talks further touched on the impact of conflicts beyond Africa, particularly in the Middle East, and their implications for the continent. Both sides agreed to build on the outcomes of the AU–EU Summit in Luanda, anchoring their partnership in shared priorities for peace, stability, and sustainable development.