Ghana has announced the closure of all its borders effective, March 22, 2020.
The President, Nana Akufo-Addo who announced this Saturday said the decision is to help reduce further escalation of the infection rate in the country.
“Fellow Ghanaians, all that the government is doing is intended to achieve five key objectives: limit and stop the importation of the virus, contain its spread, provide adequate care for the sick, limit the impact of the virus on social and economic life, and inspire the expansion of our domestic capabilities and deepen our self-reliance.”
It was his third address to the nation on the coronavirus pandemic.
He said all the country's borders- land, air and sea- will be closed at midnight on Sunday.
The closure will, however, not apply to goods.
According to Nana Akufo-Addo, the measures will be reviewed periodically and enhanced if necessary.
Ghana has confirmed 21 cases that tested positive of the disease also known as COVID-19 as of Sunday evening, with one death recorded in Kumasi, the country's second-biggest city.
But the President said his administration is stepping up efforts to ensure the current spread is contained. This includes marshalling support from retired medical professionals to deal with an anticipated surge in infections.
“The Ministry of health is mobilising new and retired healthcare professionals to augment our preparedness in dealing with a possible surge in infections."
"It is heartening to hear the number of retired healthcare professionals who have stepped forward to offer their services,” he added.
He also stressed on the need for people to maintain strict self-discipline and continue to practice prescribed social-distancing and enhanced protocols in all aspects of our daily lives.
“Our survival is in our own hands,” he said.
Latest Stories
-
Yaw Nsarkoh: Bit by bit we will understand China
2 hours -
Looted and returned: Asante royal artefacts on display for public viewing at Manhyia Museum
3 hours -
Suspected killer in Kasoa land dispute shooting not a National Security operative
3 hours -
Ghana appoint four Para Athletics coaches in Preparation for Paris 2024
3 hours -
Kumasi Cheshire Home decries inadequate equipment; seeks public support
4 hours -
UCL: Niclas Fullkrug hands Dortmund first leg advange over PSG
4 hours -
GPL: Accra Lions beat Hearts of Oak to go third
5 hours -
Seek higher grounds as rains intensify – GMet warns
6 hours -
May Day: Sam Ankrah promises to prioritise welfare and well-being of workers if elected president
6 hours -
Bawumia plans door-to-door campaign for 2024 polls
6 hours -
GAF condemns ‘unprovoked’ fatal shooting of soldier in Kasoa land dispute
6 hours -
OSP’s request for money laundering probe against Cecilia Dapaah baseless – AG advises EOCO
7 hours -
Obofour Raphael releases ‘Asem Yi Di Ka’ EP
7 hours -
‘Operation Clean Your Surroundings’: Popular Kenkey joint and public toilets in Takoradi shut down
7 hours -
GFA boss Kurt Okraku graces Dreams FC’s dinner to celebrate CAF Confederation Cup exploits
8 hours