Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
ALL sporting activities have been given the greenlight to resume, albeit with very strict conditions.
According to a statement by the Sport and Recreation Commission, the greenlight for sport to resume comes after some relaxations that were granted by Government following a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
However, the resumption of all sporting codes, which comes into effect Wednesday, is subject to strict Covid-19 protocols.
“The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) wishes to advise National Sport Associations (NSAs), delivery agencies and all stakeholders that with effect from September 1, 2021 all sports codes have been approved to resume activities,” read part of the statement.
The approval is subject to the observance of World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on safe resumption of sport.
NSA approved protocols, national legislation and policy directives, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and International Federation protocols relating to the prevention and containment of Covid-19 should also be complied with.
Among these protocols are a strong recommendation that all athletes, including children who are of 14 years and above, be vaccinated.
The SRC will liaise with NSAs for implementation.
“All athletes, including children under the age of 14 years are to adhere to all Covid-19 protocols as appropriate to the sporting activity.
“All staff at sports facilities have to be vaccinated before the admission of patrons, while coaches, managers and support staff involved in sports activities or working at sports facilities are to be also vaccinated before their involvement or resumption in any such activities or attendance at any sports facilities”.
Gymnasiums, boxing and wrestling clubs, dojos, health spas and fitness centres have also been given the greenlight to open, but only to vaccinated patrons.
But the ban on spectators at sporting events remains in place while sports venues are required to be registered and maintain registers of participants and their vaccination status.
All competitions, travel and hosting requests shall be applied for separately (that is per event) through the SRC, which will in turn submit recommendations to the Minister of Youth, Sport, Art and Recreation, Kirsty Coventry, for approval in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Child Care
“Applications for local events are required to be sent in at least 14 business days prior to the intended competition, while at least 30 business days prior to the travel date for any regional and international competitions.
“No competition in Zimbabwe, or travel outside, shall take place without the written authorization of the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
“The Ministry, SRC, NSA, delivery agencies’ compliance officers along with the relevant law enforcement authorities shall continue to monitor all sports facilities and centres for compliance.
According to the Commission, violations of health protocols and other stated conditions will result in the suspension of the relevant sport code and the prosecution of the offending persons or responsible officials.
Online Reporter