Ghana has announced the closure of all its borders in the wake of the coronavirus disease outbreak.

The directive took effect from Sunday, March 22, 2020.

The President, Nana Akufo-Addo who announced this Saturday [March 21, 2020] said the decision is to help reduce further escalation of the infection rate in the country.

“Fellow Ghanaians, all that the government is doing is intended to achieve five key objectives: limit and stop the importation of the virus, contain its spread, provide adequate care for the sick, limit the impact of the virus on social and economic life, and inspire the expansion of our domestic capabilities and deepen our self-reliance.”

He said all the country's borders- land, air and sea- will be closed at midnight on Sunday.

The closure will, however, not apply to goods.

According to Nana Akufo-Addo, the measures will be reviewed periodically and enhanced if necessary.

Ghana has recorded 24 confirmed of COVID-19 as of Sunday [22 March, 2020], with one death recorded in Kumasi, the country's second-biggest city.

READ ALSO:

"Journalists Should Adopt Precautionary Measures in Covering Issues on Covid-19" – GJA Cautions

But the President said his administration is stepping up efforts to ensure the current spread is contained. This includes marshalling support from retired medical professionals to deal with an anticipated surge in infections.

“The Ministry of health is mobilizing new and retired healthcare professionals to augment our preparedness in dealing with a possible surge in infections."

"It is heartening to hear the number of retired healthcare professionals who have stepped forward to offer their services,” he added.

He also stressed on the need for people to maintain strict self-discipline and continue to practice prescribed social-distancing and enhanced protocols in all aspects of our daily lives.

“Our survival is in our own hands,” he said.