Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has released a breakdown of his department’s FIFA World Cup spending.

McKenzie said the programme cost R30 945 370.15.

He said this was not the approximately R31 million figure that had circulated publicly.

The minister said “every rand” had been accounted for.

He added that the programme was implemented through approved submissions, departmental delegations and budget controls.

According to McKenzie, the spending remains subject to Treasury regulations.

World Cup programme explained

McKenzie said the programme included several activities linked to South Africa’s presence at the FIFA World Cup.

These included cultural performances, fan engagement, meetings with Mexican government officials and investment discussions.

He said the department also supported business networking and Bafana Bafana throughout the tournament.

South Africa also hosted exhibition spaces in Mexico City, Atlanta and Monterrey.

According to the minister, these spaces were used to showcase South Africa’s tourism, arts and investment opportunities.

Personal travel costs addressed

McKenzie also responded to criticism over his own travel costs.

He said his personal flights, accommodation and insurance for the five-week trip totalled R1 058 379.75.

The minister said he used ride-hailing services instead of dedicated government drivers where possible.

He also said he declined his travel allowance in an effort to reduce costs.

McKenzie denied claims that family members travelled at state expense.

He said all travel by his family was privately funded.

Final report still pending

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture said the programme remains subject to Public Finance Management Act requirements.

It said the spending is also subject to National Treasury cost-containment measures and post-event reconciliation.

A consolidated close-out report will be tabled once all invoices and reconciliations have been completed.

That report is expected to include sponsor contributions and implementation partner accounts.

The spending has triggered mixed reaction online.

Some social media users welcomed the detailed disclosure.

Others questioned whether the money could have been better spent on local sports infrastructure and community facilities.

The final reconciliation will be closely watched as pressure continues for full transparency over the World Cup programme.