Afigu Kargbo: Championing Change and Community Spirit in Kissy

By Edward Kabba Sesay & Mohamed Deen

Kissy, Freetown. In a world where leadership often chases status and visibility, Afigu Kargbo stands out for his quiet strength, unwavering service, and heartfelt dedication to the people of Kissy. His journey
from growing up on the streets of Sankey to leading one of the community’s most impactful initiatives is a powerful reflection of what it means to lead with purpose and passion.

Raised in the vibrant neighborhood of Kissy, Afigu’s roots run deep. He spent his early years under the care of his mother and began his academic journey at Kankalay Islamic Primary School before continuing to Ahmadiyya Muslim Secondary School. These early chapters not only shaped his values but also planted the seeds of a lifelong commitment to community upliftment.

“My love for Kissy is inborn,” Afigu often says. “It’s not just where I live it’s who I am.” That love was put into action when he took on the role of Chairman for the True Kissitonian Awards Committee a platform designed to celebrate excellence and inspire local pride.

The Awards Committee was born from collaboration between influential Kissy sons and daughters, including U.S.-based Alhaji Alpha Bedor Bangura and the widely admired Abu Bakarr Conteh, known as Arigo Sacchi. Their shared vision was clear: highlight those making a difference in the community and rekindle a culture of appreciation and service. Afigu was a natural fit to lead the initiative.

His appointment as Chairman came after a careful vetting process. His history of grassroots involvement, combined with long-standing personal ties such as shared school experiences with Alhaji Bangura bolstered his candidacy. Additionally, his earlier leadership of Bay City Football Club had demonstrated his knack for organizing, resolving disputes, and fostering unity traits critical to community leadership.

During his four years at the helm, Afigu helped organize three major editions of the Kissitonian Awards and led several community-building efforts. From food and clothing drives during festive seasons to school support programs and youth spelling competitions, his work consistently prioritized the needs of Kissy’s most vulnerable.

Yet, leadership was not without its tests. The arrival of new committee members brought fresh ideas and occasional conflict. “Critics were always loud,” Afigu reflects, “but genuine support was often quiet or missing.” Despite the hurdles, he remained focused on his mission: progress over praise.

His legacy is evident in the lives he touched
especially the children who benefited from his educational initiatives and are now thriving in their studies. “That’s the true reward,” he says. “Seeing young people dream bigger because someone believed in them.”

As he steps down from his role, Afigu extends heartfelt gratitude to his key supporters, particularly Alhaji Alpha Bedor Bangura and Abu Bakarr Conteh, whose unwavering trust helped guide his leadership journey.

The baton now passes to Madam Samia Kamara, newly appointed Chairlady of the True Kissitonian Awards. Afigu expresses full faith in her leadership, calling her a passionate and capable woman ready to take the vision even further.

While Afigu Kargbo may no longer hold the title of Chairman, his impact lives on. His story is more than one of recognition it is a lasting example of community-first leadership, a reminder that when rooted in love and purpose, even the quietest voices can inspire generations.