NAIROBI, March 13 (Xinhua) -- Following the confirmation of the first COVID-19 case in Kenya on Friday, more sporting events have been suspended or postponed as the East African country steps up effort to contain the viral disease.
The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has suspended the domestic top-flight league competition- the Kenya Cup- for the season.
"In light of the ongoing developments from the announcement of an active COVID-19 (new coronavirus) case in the country, and the directive from the Health Ministry that among other things; bans public gatherings, the Kenya Rugby Union is announcing the suspension of the 2019-20 season," a brief from the local rugby governing body said.
The Union also disbanded the women's national team training camp after the World Rugby announced the postponement of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series tournament that was due to be played in Stellenbosch, South Africa on Mar. 28-29 in response to the continued COVID-19 situation.
On Thursday, KRU declared that the 2021 Women's Rugby World Cup Repechage qualifier against Colombia in Nairobi had been called off.
Elsewhere, the Standard Chartered Trophy tournament that was to be held in the Kenyan capital on Saturday has also been canceled.
"In light of the directive from Ministry of Health suspending all public gatherings, meetings and events, we wish to inform you that the 'Standard Chartered Trophy, Road to Anfield 2020 tournament planned for 14th of March at St Mary's School is now postponed.
"A new date for the tournament will be communicated in due course. Your Health and safety is important to us," a statement from organizers proclaimed.
On Friday, the Health Ministry in Kenya suspended all travel outside the country unless necessary. Public gatherings are also suspended, including all inter-schools events.
Earlier, the European Tour 2020 Magical Kenya Open that was to start on Thursday was also called off last week.
