By Forum staff writer
Mohamed Alphaka Conteh Esq. has been appointed Executive Director of the National Sports Authority, a move widely seen as a strategic step toward strengthening sports governance in Sierra Leone.
His appointment brings together legal expertise, administrative experience and a strong background in sports management, positioning him to lead the Authority at a critical time.
Conteh is a practicing lawyer at George Karim and Partners, Lubaya Chambers, where he has built a reputation in advocacy, negotiation and client representation. These skills are expected to play a key role in handling the regulatory and institutional demands of modern sports administration.
Beyond legal practice, he has demonstrated significant capacity in academia and institutional management through his work at Njala University. Serving as Assistant Registrar and Lecturer in the School of Social Sciences and Law, he has been involved in policy coordination, administrative oversight and the execution of institutional mandates. Observers note that this experience directly aligns with the operational responsibilities of the National Sports Authority.
His professional journey also includes roles in development and finance. As Programme Officer with Hands Empowering the Less Privilege under a World Bank supported initiative, Conteh gained experience in donor frameworks, accountability systems and youth focused programs. His time at Zenith Bank Sierra Leone Limited further exposed him to financial systems, compliance and client relations, adding depth to his administrative profile.
In sports, Conteh is no stranger to governance structures. He has served as a Match Commissioner for the Confederation of African Football, a role that demands strict adherence to rules, neutrality and attention to detail. He also served on the Executive Committee of the Southern Region Football Association and was previously Secretary General of the Bo Rangers Fan Club. These roles highlight both his governance experience and his connection to grassroots football.
Academically, Conteh holds a Barrister at Law qualification, an LLB with honours, a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Arts in Peace and Development Studies. His educational background reflects a blend of legal knowledge, policy understanding and social awareness considered essential for public sector leadership.
His appointment comes at a time when the National Sports Authority is expected to strengthen transparency, improve accountability and enhance the overall standard of sports management in the country. Stakeholders believe his mix of experience and training could support reforms aimed at repositioning the sector.
Analysts say the Authority requires leadership that goes beyond routine administration and focuses on long term development. Conteh’s track record suggests a capacity to navigate complex institutional challenges while maintaining a clear focus on results.
While expectations remain high, attention will now turn to how he translates his experience into measurable progress. Issues such as infrastructure development, stakeholder coordination and athlete support are likely to test his leadership early in his tenure.
For many within the sporting community, his appointment signals a renewed commitment to professionalism and structured governance. If effectively implemented, his leadership could mark a significant phase in the development of sports administration in Sierra Leone.
Conteh now assumes office with the task of delivering on these expectations and shaping the future direction of the National Sports Authority
