Deputy Sports Minister urges federations to motivate for funding review

Several federations, including Swimming South Africa, have raised concerns in recent months over reduced financial support from the department. 

Speaking to SABC Sport, Mabe said the budget review period gives federations an opportunity to explain why their allocations should be revised.

She urged any federation unhappy with its current funding to present a strong case to the department, saying there is still room for budgets to be adjusted where justified.

"Look budget runs twice in a financial year, and we are now approaching the budget reviews. Those that we did not fund adequately, they now have an opportunity to come and say you have disadvantaged us by not giving us this amount or for taking away a certain amount. It is an open-ended discussion - all is not lost."

READ: SAFA to hold crucial talks with Hugo Broos

Mabe also assured sporting bodies that the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture remains accessible and is willing to engage with federations on funding concerns or any other challenges they may face.

Mabe also acknowledged the struggles faced by smaller sporting codes that often receive little or no government funding and are forced to rely on crowdfunding and private donations to compete internationally.

She welcomed these fundraising efforts, saying they demonstrate a commitment to developing sport, and added that partnerships between government, the private sector and the public are important to help athletes and federations succeed.