National Assembly starts probe into alleged mismanagement of sports fund

The Ministry of Sports is facing scrutiny over the management of the Sports, Arts, and Social Development Fund (SASDF) following concerns about financial transparency and accountability.

The National Assembly has launched investigations into allegations of mismanagement, with lawmakers questioning the allocation and utilisation of funds meant for sports development.

The inquiry, led by the National Assembly's Sports and Culture Committee, follows a request by Isiolo Woman Representative Mumina Bonaya.

In a statement before the National Assembly on Wednesday, Mumina expressed concerns about public funds allocated to SASDF, which she claimed have not translated into improved sports infrastructure, quality gear, or well-organised events.

"There has been a public outcry regarding financial mismanagement and lack of transparency in the administration of national revenue allocated to the Sports, Arts, and Social Development Fund and its associated entities, notably the Kenya Academy of Sports," she said.

She questioned why, despite large allocations, national teams continue to struggle with inadequate playing fields and poor-quality sports equipment.

The Jubilee legislator also requested a breakdown of funds allocated and spent on sports-related activities over the past two financial years, as well as details on the distribution of these activities across different regions.

Sports kits and equipment

Mumina further urged the committee to provide a list of all companies contracted to supply sports kits and equipment, along with a detailed explanation of the tendering process used.

Her remarks come amid concerns that only a few select companies have been awarded multimillion-shilling tenders for supplying sports materials.

However, Sports Principal Secretary Peter Tum dismissed the allegations, stating that SASDF operates under strict regulations.

"The sports fund has disbursement regulation," he said, maintaining that there has been no financial misconduct.

The Sports and Culture Committee, chaired by Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama, is now investigating how SASDF identifies and assesses the needs of sports development, as well as the measures in place to ensure equitable distribution of funds across the country.

Additionally, the committee is looking into claims that the quality of sports activities does not align with the funds allocated for them.

Mandera football tournament

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A specific concern is the allocation of Sh19.95 million for a football tournament in Mandera County.

According to a document seen by The Eastleigh Voice, the Kenya Academy of Sports requested the amount to facilitate a 10-day under-19 football camp.

The funding request, dated July 19, 2024, indicated that the event would take place at the ward level, targeting 30 teams across Mandera County.

However, residents claim the tournament was not held in several constituencies, including Mandera East, Banisa, Lafey, and Mandera North.

To ensure accountability, Mumina is calling for a forensic audit of SASDF's expenditures over the past two financial years by the Office of the Auditor-General.

The audit would include all companies contracted to supply goods and services.

She wants the findings submitted to the House Sports and Culture Committee for review and action.

Wanyama assured the MPs that the committee would conduct a thorough investigation and submit a report within three weeks.