In a move that could either quell mounting criticism or ignite further controversy, The Gambia Football Federation (GFF) has finally released its long-awaited audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024. The report, certified by independent auditors Foresight Accountancy and Audit Partners based in Bakau, was dated August 2025 but only made public now.
The release of the documents arrives against a backdrop of intense scrutiny. The GFF, under President Lamin Kaba Bajo, has faced relentless accusations of financial opacity and mismanagement, particularly regarding millions in funds from FIFA and CAF.
Foresight Accountancy, a respected local firm with a track record of auditing NGOs and government entities, provided the independent review.
Central to the report is the Independent Auditor’s Report, where Foresight Accountancy – a firm with a history of auditing the GFF, including the 2020 accounts – expresses an unqualified opinion.
Consistent with past audits, the auditors affirm that the financial statements present an accurate and fair view in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and comply with relevant Gambian laws and FIFA requirements.
Revenue highlights reflect the GFF’s heavy reliance on international support. Primary income sources include grants from FIFA’s Forward Programme, CAF allocations, government subventions, sponsorships, and domestic gate receipts. While exact 2024 figures remain pending full public dissemination, the statements outline revenues predominantly from FIFA and CAF funds, estimated in line with cumulative allocations exceeding USD 11.4 million from 2016-2022 cycles, plus ongoing annual disbursements.
Additional funds generated domestically through league competitions, merchandising, and partnerships contributed modestly but steadily.
The GFF, reporting net assets of D71.7 million in 2020, was audited by the same firm. But in recent years, demands for accountability have escalated.
The “GFF Must Go” movement, which emerged in 2024, petitioned FIFA and the Gambian government to investigate alleged embezzlement of over $11 million in funds from 2014 to 2024. Meanwhile, Gambia Against Looted Assets (GALA) has led protests and petitions, questioning the lack of delivered infrastructure projects despite substantial FIFA allocations for stadiums, pitches, and technical centers.
GALA recently accused the GFF of “glaring absence of transparency,” highlighting unpaid club dues, abandoned developments, and lack of visible progress. In July 2025, they petitioned the National Sports Council to investigate alleged misuse.
The federation has vigorously defended itself, emphasizing annual audits, partnerships, and investments in youth and infrastructure. Officials cite FIFA’s governance approvals and deny any misappropriation of funds.
FIFA and CAF tie funding to governance standards, requiring audited accounts for continued access to programs.
