This archive report was first published on 15 June 2020.
Tanzania's Soccer Returns Amid COVID-19 Precautions ¶
On June 1st, Tanzania's soccer league resumed, with teams following strict COVID-19 guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus.
According to the Tanzanian Football Federation (TFF), only a limited number of fans were allowed into stadiums, and they were required to maintain social distance, wear masks, and sanitize before entering the venue.
Players and officials also had to adhere to strict health protocols, including temperature checks, wearing masks, and maintaining social distance.
President John Pombe Magufuli had earlier hinted at the return of football in the country, citing a decrease in COVID-19 cases.
However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has criticized the Tanzanian government for not taking serious measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Other top-flight leagues across the globe have also resumed, with the English Premier League set to return in the next 48 hours.
Manchester City versus Arsenal are among the expected fixtures to jump-start the return of football in England.
The German Bundesliga was the first to kick off in mid-May, followed by the Spanish La Liga.
The Italian Serie A is expected to make a comeback this weekend.
One thing is however synonymous with the return of soccer during the COVID-19 pandemic: WHO measures to contain the spread of the pandemic are being observed before, during, and after the matches.
