Minister Gayton McKenzie Steps In to Save SAFA as Financial Scandal Rocks Football

In a timely act of generosity, Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie announced that his department would be forwarding a much-needed R5 million to the South African Football Association (SAFA) to cover salaries for both Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana players during the festive season.

This comes after the revelation earlier this month that several players from the men’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, had not been paid for their participation in Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, where they secured their place in next year’s tournament in Morocco. Along with this, the financial struggles also affected the women’s national team, Banyana Banyana, whose members were also awaiting payments.

I couldn’t sit and watch our players not being paid over festive, we advanced 5 million rand to be used to pay all Bafana & Banyana players including their bonuses. We also demanded a turnaround strategy from @SAFA_net , our players made us proud. pic.twitter.com/N7ttdVEuUJ

— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) December 12, 2024

The financial woes of SAFA have been attributed to significant debts, outstanding taxes, and high travel costs incurred during their AFCON and World Cup qualifying campaigns.

In light of the situation, McKenzie stepped in, ensuring the players received their due compensation as an early Christmas present. In a statement, McKenzie shared, “We cannot allow players to go into this festive season without payment, especially since they have done the country proud.” He further highlighted the importance of ensuring the teams remain focused as they prepare for key tournaments, including the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The R5 million advance will be deducted from SAFA’s annual government grant, providing immediate relief for the national teams. However, the association’s financial troubles come amidst the arrest of SAFA President Danny Jordaan, who faces charges of fraud and theft for allegedly using the organization’s funds for personal expenses between 2014 and 2018.

As the legal proceedings continue, the focus for now remains on securing the financial stability of the country’s top football teams, whose efforts both on and off the field have brought pride to South Africa.

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