The Confederation of African Football (CAF) have announced the fast-track of financial grants to Member Associations to assist the management of football in their domestic leagues that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

CAF have confirmed that a total of US$10.8-million will be immediately distributed to countries, following a meeting of their emergency committee last week.

“Due to the fast-spread of COVID-19, African MA’s [Member Associations] have suspended all domestic competitions, which has brought about huge financial burdens on their shoulders,” said CAF President Ahmad Ahmad.

“CAF has thus decided to wave the eligibility requirements to access the annual grants, so all MA’s can benefit during this difficult period.”

The statement further added that, “CAF is assessing the opportunity of additional financial support to MA’s for the resumption and organisation of their domestic competitions”.

CAF have already paid out US$3.5-million to the teams that participated in the 2019-20 CAF club competitions, which have been suspended ahead of the semifinals due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The continental governing body say they are working closely with FIFA and the Wealth Health Organization (WHO), and constantly evaluating return to play protocols.

“CAF is monitoring the situation closely and working with the relevant authorities including the Wealth Health Organization, FIFA amongst others on the impact of the virus on the continent, and will announce developments to our competitions at the appropriate time.”

Meanwhile, supporters in all COSAFA nations are urged to follow the advice of the World Health Organisation (WHO) to combat the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, which include:

Wash your hands frequently: Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.

Maintain social distancing: Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth: Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.

Practice respiratory hygiene: Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately

If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early: Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.