Dr. Michael Linso Lawrence Conteh is a distinguished international development expert, academic, and researcher with over 20 years of extensive experience across Southern and Western Africa, Europe, and the United States. His interdisciplinary expertise spans international relations, public sector management, gender and development, human security, leadership development, and criminal justice. Known for his impactful work, Dr. Conteh has made significant contributions to global justice, capacity building, and policy development in both academic and governmental settings. As a national consultant, he successfully directed a comprehensive human trafficking research initiative for the Namibian government. Furthermore, he extended his technical expertise and accompanied Namibia’s Women’s Parliamentary Caucus during a fact-finding mission to the United Kingdom and the USA to investigate human trafficking and gender-based violence. These interventions generated valuable empirical data and increased awareness of the nature and scope of human trafficking among Namibian communities. Notably, his leadership led to the publication of Namibia’s first white paper on human trafficking, a significant milestone in the country’s endeavors to address these critical issues.
Dr. Conteh’s academic foundation is robust, holding a Ph.D. in Global Affairs from Rutgers University, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Michigan State University, and an M.A. in Development Studies from Erasmus University in the Netherlands. His diverse education has empowered him to tackle complex global issues, especially those surrounding gender equality, human rights, and public policy. His academic focus is complemented by practical experiences such as providing expert opinions on TV on current African affairs, writing articles for the “Just Takes” at the Rutgers Global Racial Justice program, and contributing to significant public sector reforms in Namibia.
Throughout his career, Dr. Conteh has developed and led capacity-building initiatives for several UN agencies, national governments, and NGOs. As a former Senior Researcher at the Namibia Institute of Public Administration and Management (NIPAM), he led a management task force that developed the institute’s five-year strategic plan, while also facilitating national forums addressing gender-based violence and public sector leadership. His consultancy work with UNDP, UNFPA, and UNICEF has centered on gender mainstreaming, human trafficking, and HIV/AIDS prevention strategies, driving positive social change across Africa.
In academia, Dr. Conteh has held postdoctoral research roles at prestigious institutions like the Institute for the Study of Global Racial Justice, where his work focuses on global urbanization, race, and justice. His publications in peer-reviewed journals, including work on protest policing, gender equity in science and technology, and HIV prevention programs, reflect his commitment to advancing knowledge on critical global challenges. Specifically, Dr. Conteh successfully developed a refugee curriculum and led a study abroad program for Rutgers undergraduate students to learn from the Refugee Experience in East Africa at Kakuma Refugee Camp, Kenya. In collaboration with Rutgers Global, the Institute for the Study of Global Racial Justice, and the Beniba Center for the Study of Slavery in Glasgow, Scotland, Dr. Conteh participated in the Global Justice Fellows program on the theme of Reparative Justice. His involvement culminated in a presentation on “Community Engagement Strategies for Reparations” and an opinion piece titled “Sowing the Seeds of Justice: Cultivating Global Racial Justice Change with Reparatory Action.”
Dr. Conteh’s leadership extends beyond research and policy. He has mentored countless students, facilitated workshops, and managed international research projects, making substantial contributions to capacity building and academic enrichment. His efforts have been recognized with awards such as the Gender Institute Laureate Award from CODESRIA and selection for the prestigious U.S. State Department International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).
Fluent in multiple languages, including English and Afrikaans, and skilled in various analytical tools like SPSS, NVivo, and Qualtrics, Dr. Conteh is not only an intellectual leader but also a highly skilled project manager. He continues to engage with diverse stakeholders to foster international collaboration, focusing on sustainable development, gender justice, and the empowerment of marginalized communities.
Currently, Dr. Conteh remains deeply involved in global research initiatives, policy advocacy, and leadership development, aiming to create lasting change in the global public sector and social justice arenas. His unique blend of academic rigor, practical experience, and global perspective has cemented his reputation as a thought leader in international development and global governance.
Character:
Michael Conteh is a dedicated and interdisciplinary professional with over two decades of experience, committed to empowering individuals and advancing social justice. His global exposure and passion for advocacy demonstrate his integrity, leadership, and commitment to making a lasting impact on communities and organizations.
Knowledge:
With a deep understanding of gender studies, development, and global affairs, Michael has extensive expertise in research, policy formation, and capacity building. His academic and professional experiences across Africa, Europe, and the United States reflect a comprehensive grasp of complex international issues, from gender equity to human security.
Strategic:
Michael excels in strategic planning, having led the development of multiple five-year plans for organizations, resulting in enhanced program outcomes and increased funding. His ability to secure partnerships and align stakeholders reflects his skill in creating sustainable solutions for both local and global challenges.
Communication:
A strong communicator, Michael has demonstrated his ability to engage diverse audiences through presentations, publications, and workshops on a wide range of topics, including gender equity and social justice. His leadership in coordinating international projects and working with multidisciplinary teams underscores his expertise in fostering collaboration and effectively conveying critical insights.
