President Akufo-Addo has advised Ghanaians to conform to the Covid-19 safety protocols and not let their guards down to avert a possible third wave.

Speaking at the Eid Al-Adha celebration by Muslims at the National Mosque today, July 20, 2021, the President noted that the recent surge in the number of infections is a cause for concern.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is still with us, unfortunately. This means that for the second year running we are having to hold a subdued Eid celebration. As we continue to count on the grace of God to protect our country from the ravages of the pandemic like He has since its outbreak. We can only minimize its health effects and avoid a full-blown third wave if we continue to be responsible and observe the safety and hygiene protocols.

Adherence to safety protocols

Commenting on the increase in the cases, President Akufo-Addo explained that it is no brainer that Ghanaians have let their guard down in strict adherence to the safety protocols.

As such, “we’re beginning to live our lives and conduct our businesses as though we are in normal times”.

Additionally, the President emphasized that the virus is still with us and that “until each and every one of us receives a double dose of the vaccine, the protocols must continue to be a part and parcel of our daily activities.”

“The recent increase in the number of infections is a source of worry for me and indeed for all Ghanaians. From the rising numbers, it is safe to conclude that we have let our guard down and are beginning to live our lives and conduct our businesses as though we are in normal times.

“The Ministry of Health is working hard to ensure that even in a midst of a global shortage of vaccines, the target that we have set for ourselves, is to [ensure that] we vaccinate some of the other population in Ghana, i.e. some 28 million Ghanaians is undertaken”.

He stressed that until that goal is achieved, he will continue to count on the support and corporation of the Ghanaian people to ensure our collective security against the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Meanwhile, Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has admonished Muslims around the world to be motivated by the significance of the Eid-ul-Adha celebration.

As Muslims observe the celebration today, Dr Bawumia encouraged that they exhibit selflessness to humanity and the nation.

Contained in a Facebook post on Tuesday, he called on them to be “obedient to the Almighty Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim, Alayhi salam”.