Mohamed Abu Conteh
Sierra Leone has secured a historic leadership position in African sports administration following the election of Solomon Desmond Kargbo as President of the African Boxing Congress (ABC).
Kargbo was elected during the inaugural African Boxing Congress, held in December 28th, 2025, in Lagos, Nigeria, an event that brought together boxing administrators and delegates from over 20 African nations.
His election marks a significant milestone not only for Sierra Leone but also for the future of boxing governance across the African continent, as the newly formed body seeks to unify and professionally develop the sport amid ongoing global reforms.
Delegates at the congress expressed strong confidence in Kargbo’s leadership experience and vision for African boxing, citing his long-standing involvement in sports administration and commitment to transparency, unity and athlete welfare.
With his election, Kargbo becomes the founding President of the African Boxing Congress, charged with the responsibility of laying the organisational and governance foundations of the body.
In his acceptance speech, Kargbo described his election as “a collective victory for African boxing,” pledging to work closely with national federations to strengthen governance structures and create opportunities for boxers across the continent.
He emphasized the need for improved administrative standards and accountability; stronger support system for boxers and coaches and Continental unity to ensure Africa has a credible and influential voice in global boxing affairs.
The Lagos congress also produced several landmark decisions, including the formal establishment of the African Boxing Congress as a continental governing platform; the decision to locate the headquarters of the Congress in Lagos, Nigeria and the announcement of plans to launch an African Boxing League in 2026, aimed at providing structured competition and commercial opportunities for African boxers.
Sports stakeholders in Sierra Leone have welcomed Kargbo’s election as a proud moment for the nation, describing it as recognition of the country’s growing contribution to sports administration beyond football.
Kargbo’s emergence as President of the African Boxing Congress places Sierra Leone at the heart of continental boxing leadership and raises expectations that the country will play a more influential role in shaping the future of the sport in Africa.