Botswana May Withdraw from Senegal Clash Over Ebola Concerns
Botswana’s sports authorities have raised the possibility of withdrawing from their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Senegal amid growing concerns over the Ebola virus outbreak.
The potential cancellation comes after a confirmed Ebola case was detected in Senegal and the patient placed under quarantine. The virus, which has severely affected several West African countries, has heightened anxieties throughout the region and beyond.
At a recent meeting with the national team, Falcon Sedimo, Botswana’s Director of Sports and Recreation, addressed the players about the risks posed by the epidemic. He cautioned that the qualifier scheduled in Senegal might be called off as a precautionary measure.
“We must all be prepared for such an eventuality,” Sedimo said, expressing frustration that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) had not implemented clear protocols to address the epidemic in relation to the qualifiers.
Sedimo added that, should the Zebras proceed with the trip to Senegal, players would be subject to a 30-day isolation period upon their return to Botswana as a safety measure. This stringent quarantine requirement could further disrupt preparations and league commitments for the players.
The Ebola virus outbreak, which began in late 2013, has resulted in thousands of deaths, primarily in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. While Senegal had managed to contain the virus swiftly following the isolated case, fears persist about its spread, particularly with international sporting events involving cross-border travel.
CAF, the governing body for African football, has faced criticism for its handling of fixtures amid the health crisis. Stakeholders and health experts have called for stronger measures to protect players, officials, and fans while ensuring the continuity of qualifying matches.
The match between Botswana and Senegal is critical for both sides in their pursuit of qualification for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. However, the unprecedented challenges posed by the Ebola epidemic are testing the limits of football administration on the continent.
As the situation develops, the football community awaits guidance from CAF and health authorities on how to proceed safely. For now, Botswana’s hesitation reflects the broader uncertainty surrounding international sports events in the era of epidemic threats.
