BNSC Rolls Out Phased Spectators Return

Staff Writer | Monday October 11, 2021 16:00

The end of the SoE saw many restrictions which were imposed on movement and gathering of people to contain the COVID-19 pandemic lifted. According to a statement from the BNSC chief executive officer (CEO), Tuelo Serufho, spectators are now allowed at sports events. However Serufho said the return of spectators will be done in phased and systematic manner.

He said the arrangement is to ensure that risks to both the athletes and patrons are minimised. He said in Phase 1, which started on Friday until October 16, BNSC and Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC) registered National Sport Associations’ events allow for spectators. He said with respect to each event, express permission from the BNSC has to be obtained. “Venues will be filled only up to 20% of their official capacity. It will be compulsory for spectators to wear masks, sit or stand a safe distance apart and observe other COVID-19 protocols,” Serufho said in a statement.

He also said alcohol shall not be sold or consumed at the venues except for those with licensed and operational establishments within the facilities. He said Phase 2 guidelines will be released on October 18.

Serufho also said the intention will be to increase the number of spectators and lift some of the restrictions provided that adherence would have been demonstrated in the current phase, which is the pilot stage. He said Phase 3 stage, which will allow for full capacity, will only be announced in the future at a time that would have been determined safe to do so.