(Opinion) Demanding Transparency: The urgent need for forensic Audits in 29 National Sports Associations

By Emmanuel Sekago

In the realm of sports administration, transparency and accountability are not mere buzzwords; they are the cornerstones of effective governance.

As citizens invested in the development of sports within our nation, it is imperative that we scrutinize the allocation of funds to the various national sports associations.

The recent disbursement of funds by the National Council of Sports Board to these associations FY 2022-2023 has raised serious concerns, prompting a call for a thorough forensic audit.

Forensic audits delve deep into financial records, leaving no stone unturned in uncovering any irregularities or misappropriations.

Given the magnitude of funds involved and the significance of their impact on our sporting landscape, a forensic audit is not just a suggestion but a necessity.

The rationale behind the allocation of funds to specific sports associations must be made transparent.

Citizens deserve to know why certain associations received more funding than others, and what criteria were used in making these decisions.

Was it based on performance metrics, developmental needs, or other undisclosed factors? Without clear answers, suspicions of favoritism or mismanagement may linger, casting a shadow of doubt over the integrity of sports administration.

Moreover, a forensic audit serves as a preventive measure against corruption and financial malpractice.

By thoroughly examining financial transactions and scrutinizing expenditure patterns, it acts as a deterrent to potential wrongdoers and safeguards the interests of athletes and stakeholders alike.

The National Council of Sports Board, as the custodian of sports development funds, has a duty to be transparent and accountable in its dealings.

It owes the public an explanation regarding the allocation of funds and should welcome a forensic audit as an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to good governance.

In addition to fostering transparency, a forensic audit can provide valuable insights for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of fund allocation in the future.

By identifying areas of weakness or inefficiency, it paves the way for reforms that ensure resources are allocated equitably and in alignment with the overarching goals of sports development.

In conclusion, the call for a forensic audit of the 29 national sports associations is not born out of mere suspicion, The following are;

Uganda Paralympic Committee UGX 750,000,000, Uganda tennis UGX 137,104,488, Uganda Skating UGX 310,000,000, Uganda Archery UGX 99,943,877, Uganda Scrabble UGX 72,635,877, VX Uganda UGX 54,635,877, Uganda Rollball UGX 85, 938,047,

Uganda Draught UGX 89,635,877, Uganda Table Tennis UGX 134,000,000, Uganda Cycling UGX 44,335,877, Uganda Taekwondo UGX 79,820,000, Uganda Ultimate Frisbee UGX 55,035,877,

Uganda Lacrosse UGX 194,635,877, Uganda Floorball UGX 50,000,000,Uganda Baseball and Softball UGX 100,000,000, Uganda Zurkhaneh UGX 45,035,877, Uganda Squash UGX 55,000,000,

Gymnastic Association UGX 50,860,380, Uganda Dragon Boat UGX 89,635,732, Uganda Canoe Kayak UGX 81,083,931, Uganda Rowing UGX 67,235,877, Uganda Judo UGX 203,217,992, Uganda Fencing UGX 79,842,700,

Uganda Weightlifting UGX 80,402,100, Uganda Sport Climbing UGX 77,587,480, Uganda America Football UGX 164,450,000, Uganda Deaf UGX 62,500,000, Uganda Body Building UGX 86,040,000, Uganda Wrestling UGX 74,249,500 and Uganda DanceSport UGX 139,799,400

But out of a genuine commitment to transparency, accountability, and the promotion of fair play in sports administration.

It is time for the National Council of Sports Board to heed this call, provide answers to the pertinent questions raised, and take decisive action to uphold the integrity of sports governance.

Only through such measures can we truly foster a culture of trust and confidence in our sporting institutions, paving the way for the sustainable growth and success of sports in our nation.