Former Gambia Football Federation (GFF) president Alhagi Ousman Basi Conateh died on April 4 in Banjul at the age of 83.
The cause of death was not disclosed. The Gambia to date has reported just four cases of coronavirus, with one death.
The veteran football administrator and philanthropist, fondly called ‘Fisco’, was the honorary president of the GFF, having led the football governing body from 1993 until his voluntary retirement in 2001.
“Our father and mentor will forever be remembered for his selfless services to the nation, especially football. He was a philanthropist of the highest level who contributed to the lives and livelihood of many,” said GFF President Lamin Kaba Bajo.
A businessman, he was also the founding father of the Gambia’s most decorated football club Wallidan FC.
He has since been laid to rest at Jeshwang, on the outskirts of the capital Banjul.
Wallidan Football Club paid tribute to Conateh:
“Wallidan football club is saddened to announce the demise of the club founding father Mr Alagie OB Conateh today.
“This obituary announcement is extended to Gambia Football Federation, the Confederation of African Football and to the president of the Republic Adama Barrow.
“May his Gentle Soul Rest in Peace.”
The Gambia has a world ranking of 59th, while it rates 46th on the African continent. Gambia neighbours the top-rated African footballing nation of Senegal which is ranked 20th in the world.
In partnership with ANA and Sports Leo
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