By: Ahmed Mohamed Kaikai
The newly appointed Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Mohamed Alphaka Conteh, on Saturday, 9 May 2026, made a strong and symbolic appearance at the grand finale of the 2025/2026 Marampa Mines Women’s Premier League (MMWPL), where Mogbwema Queens were crowned champions in dominant fashion.
Conteh’s presence at one of Sierra Leone’s biggest women’s football events has already sparked discussions within the country’s sporting community, with many viewing it as an early sign of renewed commitment to sports development and the empowerment of women through football.
The atmosphere at the closing ceremony was electrifying as supporters, football lovers, administrators, and government officials gathered to witness Mogbwema Queens demolish Ascentonians 6-0 in their final league match to secure another historic league triumph.
Fresh from his appointment to head the NSA, Mohamed Alphaka Conteh remained actively engaged throughout the event, joining other dignitaries in presenting medals to the jubilant champions. His interactions with players, football officials, and stakeholders reflected a leader eager to connect with the realities of sports development in Sierra Leone.
For many football followers, his attendance carried significance beyond ceremony. It symbolized hope for stronger collaboration between the NSA, the Ministry of Sports, and the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) in advancing women’s football and creating greater opportunities for young female athletes.
Among the dignitaries present were Mariatu Rachael Pessima, Member of Parliament for Port Loko District and Board Chairperson of the MMWPL; Augusta James-Teima; Babadi Kamara; Benson Bawoh; David Moinina Sengeh; Tuma Gento Jabbie Kamara; Mayor Koba Musa; and representatives from league sponsors Marampa Mines Limited.
Delivering her remarks, Hon. Mariatu Rachael Pessima commended President Julius Maada Bio for creating what she described as an enabling environment for the growth of women’s football in Sierra Leone. She also praised the Ministry of Sports, the SLFA leadership, and Marampa Mines Limited for their continued support in ensuring the successful completion of the league season.
“The winners are taking home Le500,000, while the runners-up will receive Le250,000. This is unprecedented in Sierra Leone women’s football,” she announced proudly.
She encouraged parents across the country to support their daughters in pursuing football careers, emphasizing that the women’s game is gradually becoming economically rewarding.
“Some players in this league earn more than certain civil servants in this country. Football can transform lives and take these young girls to places they never imagined,” she noted.
Mogbwema Queens once again proved why they are regarded as the powerhouse of women’s football in Sierra Leone. The three-time champions completed the season with a flawless record 22 matches played, 22 victories, 66 points accumulated, 72 goals scored, and only six goals conceded.
The club has now lifted the Women’s Premier League trophy three times in four seasons, including two unbeaten campaigns an achievement that continues to distinguish them in the history of women’s football in Sierra Leone.
As celebrations continued long after the final whistle, Mohamed Alphaka Conteh’s first major public appearance as NSA Director General left many sports stakeholders optimistic about a new chapter for sports administration in Sierra Leone.