President Nana Addo-Dankwa Akufo-Addo says despite the existing possibility of a potential surge in infections of COVID-19, government is well prepared to deal with a sudden spike in infections, hence his announcement of easing restrictions to ensure the gradual return of life to normalcy.
"Yes, there exists the possibility of a potential surge in infections. As a precautionary measure, we have strengthened further our existing national, regional and district response teams, with the support of the security forces, to step up to deal with any eventuality," the president said in his Sunday address.
According to the president, the recent spike in cases in some areas in the country has afforded government the opportunity to learn how to handle a surge in cases.
"Over recent weeks, we have learnt from the cases at the fish processing plant in Tema, and in the Obuasi municipality how to deal with such sudden spikes. We will continue to learn, review and adjust where and when we need to do so. We will only proceed with this staggered opening up of our country when it is safe to do so," he said.
President Akufo-Addo has announced the easing of some restrictions imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Ghana starting from Friday, June 5, 2020.
"As I stated in my May Day address, a month ago, I am now in a position to outline the roadmap for easing safely the restrictions. Ours is going to be a phased approach, involving a selected list of public gatherings based on their risk profile, socio-economic impact, and, most importantly, our capacity to enforce and to respond in the event of a flare-up in our number of infections. So, fellow Ghanaians, with effect from Friday, 5th June, we will begin Stage One of the process of easing restrictions," the president announced.
Some of the activities with eased restrictions including the ban church and mosque activities as well as the closure of schools.
The president also announced that restrictions on other activities such as funerals and political rallies remain in place.
"I have, by Executive Instrument, provided for these new directions, and extended the suspension of the remaining public gatherings, as set out in E.I. 64 of 15th March, until 31st July. In here, I refer to the suspension of sporting events, nightclubs, cinemas, drinking spots, bars, beaches, festivals, funerals, political rallies, and large religious gatherings such as crusades, pilgrimages and conventions," he said.
