14 associations miss fundingfor failing tomeet guidelines

At least 14 sports associations have not received subventions from government through Malawi National Council of Sports after failing to meet new governance guidelines,Nation on Sundayunderstands. Lawn tennis, table tennis, draught, darts, cycling, handball, triathlon, basketball, volleyball, In order to qualif y for the subvention associations are required to hold annual general meetings, submit strategic plans emphasizing grassroots development, disclose all funding sources and possess proper physical offices with staff. The other key requirements include having a president with at least a bachelor’s degree and a secretary with a diploma as well as focusing on athlete welfare and safety.

While some of the associations are nearing compliance, 12 have not met any requirements so far, according to Sports Council spokesperson Edgar Ntulubwa. “Others are in the process of meeting 70 percent of the requirements while 12 of the associations have zero score in the attainment sheet. It is not that they are disregarding the set guidelines, but rather they lack capacity,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ntulubwa said the council has arranged workshops starting April to further help the associations meet the guidelines. Sports Council launched the guidelines in September 2022 to improve sports management and enhance accountability. Part of the guidelines read: “The guidelines seek to assist national sport associations and other stakeholders to appreciate and understand standards and conduct that are respected and valued within the sport sector.

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“To provide a deterrent against unacceptable behaviours and practices which may be detrimental to sport development and assist sports associations to embrace best practices in sport leadership.” The guidelines also state that for any sport association to be recognised by the council, they must have a constitution that is in line and approved by it and with dictates of their respective international federations. Cycling Federation of Malawi president Malumbo Kaira in an interview said they have no stable financial flow to have an office and pay salaries for staff. Association of Draught in Malawi president John Ngwenya said they failed to implement guidelines as set by the Sports Council.

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