The Council of Southern African Football Associations COSAFA has announced the postponment of the regional U17 Women’s Championship that was set for April in Mauritius due the outbreak of the Coronavirus.

COSAFA announced in a statement that it had arrived at the decision following consultations with various stakeholders.

“COSAFA can confirm that the 2020 Women’s Under-17 Championship scheduled to be staged in Mauritius from April 17-26 has been postponed.”

“This follows a media briefing on Monday, March 16 where the Prime Minister of Mauritius, the Honorable Pravind Jugnauth, outlined the nation’s plans to counter the spread of the Coronavirus pandemic.”

This will include the closing of borders with certain countries, which will make travel to the island difficult.

The statement reads further, “While we are disappointed that the tournament will be postponed, we are respectful of the decision by the Mauritius government to take appropriate steps to safeguard its citizens during this global crisis,” says COSAFA General Secretary Sue Destombes.

“The health of the public, players, coaches and administrators has to be the top priority and so, like much of the footballing world, we will wait to find the right time to stage this vital competition for the development of our women’s footballers.

“We continue to engage with our valued partners in the Mauritius Football Association and will announce new dates as soon as is feasible.

“These are uncertain times and so we thank the people of Southern Africa, sponsors and all stakeholders for their patience.”

The inaugural COSAFA Women’s Under-17 Championship was staged in Mauritius last year, where East African guest nation Uganda defeated South Africa in the final.

Globally more than 170,000 people have been infected with the Coronavirus, and more than 6,600 deaths have been recorded.