His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of Republic of Ghana, on Sunday 20 September, 2020, in his speech on Ghana Covid-19 updates has removd restrictions on sports activities.
Speaking on the 17th update on Covid-19, from the Jubilee House, President Akufo-Addo confirmed that all contact sports can, from next month, engage in all competitions.
“Towards the progressive easing of restrictions, government is taking the decision to allow the resumption of training, in all contact sports” He said.
The President said the decision has been influced by taking into consideration, the national teams being able to participate in national sporting competitions.
He added “Taking into consideration, the eminent participation of our national teams in international competitions. Some National teams have already been given the dispensation to begin training ahead of their international engagement.”
However, the president insisted that, all sports people who are on camp, or will go to camping, must be tested for covid-19.
“All sports people who are camped are to be tested regularly.” He affirmed.
Moreover, specifically to football, the president said through serious of consultation with Ghana Football Association, the Ghana Premier League games should start on next month, October 30th.
“With respect to football, after due consultations with the Ghana Football Association, it’s been decided, that the Ghana Premier League and the Division One Football League, will restart on Friday 30th October, with the full regime of testing of the players, technical and management staff.” The President said.
However, President Akufo Addo stated that, spectators will not be allowed to go to the various training centers of football teams, and also, only 25% capacity spectators tickets will be sold for all football games, because of social distancing of Covid-19 safety measures protocols.
He added “No spectators will be allowed at the training centers, and when actual competition resumes, seating at all stadia, will be limited to 25% capacity, to ensure social distancing. Wearing of masks by spectators at stadia wll be mandatory.”
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Moreover, President Akufo-Addo said continues consultations will be held as sporting activities commences, to properly check the situation of Covid-19 in relations to sports, to improve safety measures provided for engaging in contact sports.
“When we start all other sporting competitions, will be determined on a case by case basis. Depending on consultations between the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the respective sports associations.” He ended.
