MAF defines a conflict of interest as a situation in which a person or organisation is involved in multiple interests, financial or otherwise, and serving one interest could involve working against another. This also applies where the aims of two different parties are incompatible; and / or a situation in which a person is in a position to derive personal benefit from actions or decisions made in their official capacity.

MAF responsible persons, volunteers and staff must not put themselves in a position in which their interest is, or could be suspected to be, in conflict with the interests of the organisation and must not use their position for personal gain. MAF requires that responsible persons, volunteers and staff disclose perceived, potential and actual conflicts of interest and maintain processes for addressing and recording conflicts of interest, including those that have already occurred.

MAF is committed to conducting its activities with the highest degree of integrity and in full compliance with all applicable laws. This includes:

  • Not accepting or soliciting any gift, favour, loan or anything of monetary value from/to suppliers or potential suppliers.
  • A commitment toward zero tolerance to all forms of fraud, bribery, corruption and theft. This includes paying or receiving a bribe whether directly or indirectly as well as facilitation payments.
  • MAF responsible persons, volunteers and staff not contributing to political organisations or individuals to obtain an advantage for themselves or the organisation. Staff should conduct themselves at all times in a manner that avoids suspicion of such behaviour.
  • MAF responsible persons, volunteers and staff avoiding situations in which their personal interest may conflict, or appear to conflict, with the interests of MAF or its beneficiaries or clients.
  • When an employee suspects that a conflict of interest exists, they shall disclose this immediately to their Country Director or Support Department Manager so that action can be taken to avoid the conflict and/or manage it if is unavoidable. Managers should also keep an eye on potential conflicts of interests of their staff.
  • The requirement that responsible persons and directors disclose perceived, potential and actual conflicts of interest and record the same in the minutes.

MAF manages conflicts of interest amongst responsible persons, staff and volunteers as they relate to activities undertaken by the organisation. In order to achieve this, responsible persons, volunteers and staff must:

a. Agree to the policy by signing the staff Code of Conduct
b. Comply with the Financial Crimes Policy; and
c. Comply with the MAF Procurement Policy.