President Akufo-Addo has disclosed that 16 out of the 23 airlines that operated at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) prior to its closure during the pandemic have begun operations.

During his last address to the nation, the President announced the reopening of the airport, signalling the country's reintegration with the rest of the world.

In his 17th update today, he expressed concern with the fact that the protocols passengers are to follow prior to entry into the country have so far been flouted by some.

He further noted that after its reopening on September 1, 26 out of a total number of 10,061 passengers that have so far arrived at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) have tested positive for Covid-19.

"In spite of the requirement that all passengers must be in possession of a negative PCR test result upon their arrival in Ghana, a test which should have been conducted not more than 72 hours before the scheduled departure from their country of origin, a total of 26 positive cases have been recorded from the test at Kotoka".

He underscored the need for all passengers arriving in Ghana to be in possession of a negative Covid-19 PCR test result from an accredited laboratory in the country of origin.

"Let us pause for a moment and imagine what would have happened if these 26 positives had not been detected and had been allowed to mingle with the population," he said.

Akufo-Addo praised the efficiency and accuracy of the mandatory test required for all passengers arriving in the country despite the many criticisms of its cost.

"Even though the cost of the 150 united states dollars per passenger for the mandatory airport Covid test has been criticized in certain quarters, the value of the test in its speed, accuracy and savings for passengers who no longer have to bear the cost of the 14-day mandatory quarantine in hotels has been clearly established".

He noted that the country has been praised for the level of service experienced by passengers at KIA for the "innovation and farsightedness on display".

In addition, he pledged, as the president of the nation, to protect the people from the importation of the virus into the country.

"Let me assure you again, that as President of the Republic, I will do everything in my power to protect you and stop the importation of the virus into our country, or limit and contain its spread. This is my solemn commitment to you".