The Mozambican Basketball Federation (FMB) is embroiled in a dispute with the Sports Promotion Fund (FPD) over the use of more than $1.2 million earmarked to support the senior women's national basketball team. The funds, originating from TotalEnergies, were allocated to cover the team's expenses during the Olympic Games. However, the FMB accuses the FPD of misappropriating these funds, in violation of the agreement established between the parties.
The Secretary of State for Sport, Gilberto Mendes, criticized the FMB (Brazilian Basketball Federation) for its lack of organization and planning, suggesting that the federation should take responsibility for the problems it faces. Mendes emphasized that the FMB should manage basketball more effectively and not transfer responsibility to others.
César Tique, vice-president of the FMB, explained that the national team faced delays due to the lack of release of funds by the FPD. According to Tique, the money allocated by TotalEnergies should have been channeled directly to the FMB, but was transferred to the FPD, which did not pass the funds on to the federation. This delay compromised the team's preparation and trip to Mexico, where they were supposed to participate in the pre-qualification for the Basketball World Cup.
FMB attempted to obtain alternative resources to make the trip possible, but the lack of confirmation of the tickets and a debt owed by FPD to travel agencies resulted in the cancellation of the trip. The confusion negatively impacted the team, leading to the withdrawal of one of its key players, Tamara Seda.
The FPD has not responded to requests for comment on the situation, leaving the case shrouded in uncertainty. The situation highlights the urgent need for greater transparency and coordination in the management of sports funds in Mozambique.
