The 2021 TOTAL Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations , which was to kick-off this weekend in Morocco, has been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to a press release issued by CAF Communications Director Alexandre Siewe, the CAF Emergency Committee decided to cancel the tournament after a meeting held on Monday in Rabat.

He stated that the committee noted the resurgence of the Covid-19 pandemic, increased restrictions on international travel and about the evolution of the situation.

“The Committee was made aware of the constraints faced by some of the participating member associations as well as the host country including the fact that the coronavirus pandemic continues to present significant challenges for the organization of international sporting events,” said Siewe.

Zambia is among five out of 12 participating countries that already set base in Morocco to prepare for the tournament which was due to run from 13 March – 31 March.

Others are Ivory Coast, Senegal, Tanzania and Uganda.

The Young Chipolopolo were also scheduled to play pre-tournament matches against FUS Rabat U17, Nigeria and Cameroon.