UK High Commission withdraws British staff as Ghana cases hit 1,042

The British High Commission has cut down the number of British staff working in the diplomatic mission.

The interim measure was undertaken after the Ghana government lifted a three-week lockdown in the country to allow free movement and business activities.

The number of coronavirus cases in Ghana has soared to 1042 with nine deaths. A total of 99 patients have recovered fully, with more recoveries expected in the coming weeks pending additional tests for people who recorded initial negative results after receiving treatment.

On Tuesday, April 21, the UK High Commission stated, “Given the rapidly changing situation in Ghana, we are temporarily withdrawing a limited number of UK staff and their dependents from our High Commission”.

The release added that the High Commission would continue to carry out essential work, including providing 24/7 consular assistance and support to British people in Ghana.

The High Commission suspended general services since the outbreak of the COVID-19 due to travel bans and border closures of several countries including Ghana.

Additionally, the UK government advised its citizens resident in Ghana to stay indoors and “only go outside for food, health reasons or work”. The directive on working is for persons who “cannot work from home”.

For people who need to go out of their homes, they have been cautioned to stay two metres away from other people at all times and wash their hands as soon as they get home.

“Do not meet others, even friends or family,” the advice notice added.

Meanwhile, other embassies and high commissions of the United States, Australia, Canadian and Dutch missions have all been shut down temporarily.

The UK has the 6th highest number of infections with 124,743 cases and 16,509 deaths as of April 21, 10:30 GMT, according to tracking website Worldometer.