The Kenyan government seeks to implement significant reforms, including merging, dissolving, and restructuring various state corporations to streamline operations and enhance service delivery. Among the entities affected is the Sports, Arts, and Social Development Fund (SASDF), which will now operate under the Ministry of Sports with a revised governance framework.
Key Changes to the Sports Fund
During a Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto at Kakamega State Lodge, it was resolved that the SASDF would be declassified as a standalone entity and its functions transferred to the Sports Ministry. This move aims to strengthen governance and improve focus on the fund’s objectives.
SASDF was established in 2018 under the Public Finance Management regulations to aid the development and promotion of sports and arts and universal health care under former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s regime.
Challenges and Criticism
The SASDF has faced criticism for its disbursement structure, with many in the sports sector arguing that funds intended for sports have often been diverted to other non-sports sectors. This reallocation has led to perceptions of the fund offering the sports industry a “raw deal.”
With the Ministry of Sports taking over these functions, concerns have been raised about the potential for reduced funding prioritization for sports unless dedicated ring-fencing mechanisms are implemented. The fund’s autonomy had previously helped ensure that sports-specific allocations were safeguarded.
Leadership and Implications
The SASDF is currently led by CEO Nuh Ibrahim, with Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jack Tuwei serving as the board chair. Moving forward, their roles and those of the fund’s board are likely to be reviewed as the Sports Ministry absorbs the fund’s operations.
While the government views this restructuring as a step toward efficiency, stakeholders worry about the implications for the growth of sports, especially if funding becomes subject to broader government priorities
The decision to merge the SASDF with the Ministry of Sports represents a major shift in Kenya’s approach to sports funding and governance. While the move aims to reduce inefficiencies, it also raises questions about ensuring consistent financial support for sports development in the country.
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