The Zambian Government has ordered a ban of fans from all domestic Leagues and International matches following a spike in Covid-19 cases in the country.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday that all League matches will be played behind closed doors while observing the necessary Covid-19 protocols.
“Following a recent spike in the number of COVID-19 cases reported in Zambia, Government has announced a ban of football fans from stadia in the 2020/2021 football season,” Read the statement.
“In this regard, the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) wishes to inform its stakeholders and all members of the football family that with immediate effect, there will be no fans who will be allowed inside football stadia as a precautionary measure.”
FAZ General Secretary Adrian Kashala says the Association will fully comply with Government’s directive and wishes to advise all clubs to adhere to Minister of Youth, Sport and Child Development, Emmanuel Mulenga’s announcement on the ban of spectators until further notice.
“The health of players, officials, fans and other stakeholders remains our priority and the decision by government to prohibit fans from stadia will allow us to continue with football under the new normal based on advice we have received from the Ministries of Health and Sport.”
Kashala assured clubs and all affiliates that FAZ will work hand in hand with the Zambia Medical Association to ensure that the safety of players is guaranteed and league matches continue to be played in a safe environment.
He urged clubs to take responsibility and act in a responsible manner in the new normal and also appealed to football loving fans to adhere to the health guidelines and not to force their way into stadium.
“We appeal to all clubs to ensure that they follow all COVID-19 health guidelines such as putting in place hand washing facilities, sanitizing, social distancing and masking up without fail. These measures will help in ensuring that football continues to be played despite the prevailing situation in the country,” Kashala said.
