Government proposes a bill to amend the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund, introducing significant changes to its funding priorities.
The government has proposed a bill to amend the functions of the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund (SASD Fund) with the aim of narrowing its scope to focus exclusively on funding sports and arts initiatives.
In a statement released on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, the National Treasury outlined the changes, noting that the amendment seeks to redefine the purpose of the fund.
13:31 - 27.11.2024
Mary Moraa unveils multi-million palace with unique features that will leave you in awe
Mary Moraa has unveiled a luxurious 10-room mansion, celebrating her triumphs on the track and a remarkable 2024 season.
Established in 2018 under the Public Finance Management (Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund) Regulations, the SASD Fund currently supports sports, arts, and social development, including universal health care programs.
“This Amendment Regulation seeks to amend the Public Finance Management (Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund) Regulations, 2018 by limiting the mandate to funding the development and promotion of sports and arts only. The amendments also clarify the administration of the Fund,” the National Treasury explained in its statement.
If approved by the National Assembly, the amended regulation will remove social development programs from the fund's remit.
Instead, it will prioritize initiatives such as financing sports and arts infrastructure, supporting sportspersons and arts organizations, and providing equipment necessary for these sectors.
“The Amendment Regulation, once considered and approved by the National Assembly, will ensure that Fund objectives will be amended to provide funding to support the development and promotion of sports and arts, including facilitation for the acquisition and Provision of equipment for sports and arts, enhancing support and access to funding for sportspersons and sports organizations on their participation in sporting events and competitions, financing the development of sports and recreation arts facilities, among others,” the statement added.
11:33 - 27.11.2024
Why Sports CS Murkomen is leveraging Judiciary to safeguard athletes wealth
The CS is amplifying the fight against athletes being duped out of their wealth by spouses.
A multi-agency task force, comprising representatives from the State Department for Sports, the State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage, SASD Fund administrators, and the National Treasury, developed the draft amendments.
The National Treasury emphasized that the proposed changes aim to streamline the Fund’s activities for greater impact in its designated sectors.
Public participation has been invited, with the Treasury urging stakeholders to provide feedback on the draft regulations.
“Now, pursuant to Section 4 (a) and 5 (3) (a) and (b) of the Statutory Instruments Act, 2013, the National Treasury & Economic Planning invites members of the public to submit comments, inputs or memoranda they may have on the said draft The Public Finance Management (Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 in the format provided on the website,” the statement concluded.
The current SASD Fund structure has drawn both praise and criticism since its inception.
While it has contributed to the growth of sports and arts in the country, critics argue that its wide mandate has diluted its effectiveness.
10:34 - 27.11.2024
Eliud Kipchoge Foundation lands major financial boost to aid in 2025 developments
The Eliud Kipchoge Foundation has received financial support from a leading sports wearables company to aid in their 2025 executions.
By narrowing its focus, the government aims to address these concerns and bolster support for athletes, artists and cultural institutions.
Among the key beneficiaries of the proposed changes would be local sports teams and cultural groups, which have often cited limited funding as a barrier to growth and participation in international events.
The development of sports and arts infrastructure, such as stadiums and art galleries, is also expected to receive a significant boost under the revised mandate.
Stakeholders now have a critical opportunity to weigh in on the proposed changes during the public participation phase.
Once comments are collected and incorporated, the draft amendments will proceed to Parliament for consideration.
If the bill is enacted, it will mark a significant policy shift, signaling the government’s intent to prioritize sports and arts as drivers of national development and cultural pride.
12:01 - 27.11.2024
'Training has been so different'- How Julien Alfred is gearing up for 2025 World Championships
Julien Alfred is burning the midnight oil to ensure she dethrones Sha'Carri Richardson at next year's World Championships in Tokyo, Japan.
The public has until the stipulated deadline to make their voices heard, with the final decision on the future of the SASD Fund resting in the hands of lawmakers.