The African Development Bank (AfDB) has postponed, sine die, the African Investment Forum (AIF) 2021, following the emergence of a new variant of covid-19, called Omicron. The event was scheduled to take place between December 1 and 3 in Abidjan, considered to be the economic capital of Ivory Coast.

Considered the main investment market for Africa, the AIF had listed projects with investments valued at billions of dollars, according to the President of the AfDB, Akinwumi Adesina, quoted in a announcement of the institution.

"Unfortunately, with increased global travel restrictions due to the Covid-19 Ómicron variant, and heightened health and safety concerns, it is regrettably necessary to postpone the event. Everyone's health and safety comes first," he said.

ADB's decision was made in conjunction with the Government of Côte d'Ivoire, and together they address their considerations of thanks to the previously expected participants and delegations.

"We sincerely regret all inconveniences to our esteemed and awaited Heads of State and Government, participants, project sponsors, investors and government delegations," it read.

It is recalled that already the 2020 edition was not held due to the covid-19 pandemic.