Sports Ministry Under Fire Over “Shallow” Response on Misused Sports Fund
Webuye West Member of Parliament, who is also The National Assembly’s Committee on Sports and Culture chairperson Dan Wanyama. Photo/Parliament of Kenya.
By Robert Assad
The National Assembly’s Committee on Sports and Culture has rejected the Ministry of Sports’ explanation regarding alleged mismanagement of the Sports, Arts, and Social Development Fund (SASDF), calling its response “unsatisfactory” and full of gaps.
The scrutiny follows a demand for accountability by Isiolo County MP Mumina Bonaya, who last week sought a detailed statement on how the multi-million shilling fund has been utilized.
During a heated session chaired by Committee Chairperson Dan Wanyama, lawmakers tore into the Ministry’s report, accusing it of failing to address critical concerns.
Incomplete and “Shallow” Report
“The Committee is not convinced that the response fully addressed the queries raised by Hon. Bonaya,” declared Wanyama. “The Ministry must submit a comprehensive report that adequately answers all concerns before re-tabling its response.”
Bonaya, who attended the session, expressed frustration, stating: “The details provided do not fully address my concerns. The response is not detailed—it is very shallow.”
Among the key issues she raised were:
1 Lack of transparency in how the Kenya Academy of Sports and the SASDF identify and assess sports development needs.
2. Unclear accountability for funds allocated to sports-related activities.
3. Absence of proper criteria in disbursing money to beneficiaries.
Ministry Given 14-Day Ultimatum
The Committee has now given the Sports Ministry a 14-day deadline to provide a revised report with full financial disclosures. Lawmakers warned that failure to comply could trigger a forensic audit into the Fund’s expenditures.
“This is taxpayers’ money, and we must ensure it is used properly,” said Wanyama. “Our oversight role demands nothing less than full accountability.”
Growing Suspicion of Misappropriation
The probe comes amid rising concerns over possible misuse of sports funds, with recent reports indicating that millions meant for talent development and grassroots sports programs remain unaccounted for.
Critics argue that despite heavy investments, Kenya continues to underperform in international competitions due to mismanagement.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, who was not present during the session, is expected to appear before the Committee next week to respond to the allegations.
What’s Next?
If the Ministry fails to provide satisfactory answers, the Committee may escalate the matter to the Auditor-General for a special audit. Meanwhile, sports stakeholders have welcomed the probe, with former athletes urging stricter oversight to safeguard funds meant for nurturing talent.
“As athletes, we demand accountability,” said former marathon champion Moses Tanui. “If this money is being misused, it’s a betrayal to upcoming talents.”
The Committee’s next hearing is scheduled for April 17, where the Ministry must present a revised report or face further parliamentary action.
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