adminSenior Sports Reporter
WORLD soccer mother-body Fifa have ordered national associations to provide detailed and audited reports on how they used the developmental funds extended to them last year. The reports should be with Fifa by March 31. Zifa have said they will meet the Fifa deadline although they might be found wanting in fulfilling the conditions set by Fifa.
“As Zifa we have an obligation to provide the information required by Fifa. Anything that Fifa requires we comply as you know that all Fifa funds have to be accounted for,” said Zifa communications manager Xolisani Gwesela.
Gwesela said this was not the first time that Fifa has demanded such reports.
In a circular to its member and Confederations, Fifa said in accordance with the general regulations for Fifa developmental programmes which have been approved by the executive committee, member associations are responsible for providing Fifa with a report on the use of the developmental funds received.
“The audit must include a report on the member association’s programme account (former Financial Assistance Programme account), signed by its independent auditor. An independent letter signed by the said auditor and a representation letter signed by the member association,” reads part of the Fifa circular.
With Zifa set to hold its annual general meeting and elections two days before the set deadline, the national association might be forced to call for an early AGM.
“The objective of this investigation is to make sure your association has a separate bank account for receiving and using Fifa funds in accordance with Article Four of the general regulations for Fifa development programmes. The main objective of this separate bank account is to have an audit trail to follow up transactions involving Fifa funds. This bank account must be used exclusively for funds provided by Fifa,” read the circular signed by Markus Kattner, Fifa deputy secretary general.
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