The Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) is strengthening teamwork and institutional unity through football as Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Kenyeh Barlay, unveiled the ministry’s official football jerseys ahead of the 2026 Inter-Ministerial Football League.
The unveiling ceremony, held on Thursday, October 22, brought together senior ministry officials, development partners, and enthusiastic staff members as the ministry prepared to represent MoPED in the inter-ministerial competition.
The initiative, supported by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) through the provision of free jerseys, ensures that staff members can participate in the campaign while promoting a shared sense of identity, belonging, and collective responsibility.
The jersey presentation represents more than the introduction of a football kit. It reflects the ministry’s commitment to fostering stronger relationships among employees and encouraging collaboration beyond their daily professional responsibilities.
Among the senior officials present were Development Secretary Ambrose James, ECOWAS Deputy Director Lilian, Robert Ganda of South-South Cooperation, Deputy Development Secretary Saffea Ndomaina, Deputy Director of PPR Joseph Samah, and Director of NGO Affairs Eric Masallay, who also serves as the team manager.
The official list of players was also unveiled during the ceremony, formally setting the stage for MoPED-FC’s participation in the competition.
Addressing staff members, Minister Barlay emphasised that the Inter-Ministerial Football League should not be viewed solely as a contest for trophies but as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation, build professional networks, and promote integration across government institutions.
She noted that the relationships developed through sporting activities could contribute to improved communication and stronger working partnerships among ministries.
According to the minister, the spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and teamwork demonstrated on the football pitch should extend into the workplace, where ministries and government agencies are expected to work together towards national development.
Development Secretary Ambrose James also underscored the importance of teamwork, strategic preparation, and collective responsibility in achieving success.
Drawing a connection between football and the ministry’s development coordination mandate, James highlighted the need for individuals to work towards a common objective, stressing that effective coordination and shared commitment are essential both in sports and public service.
He expressed confidence in the team’s preparations as MoPED-FC geared up for its opening encounter in the league.
Meanwhile, Team Manager Eric Masallay encouraged the players to demonstrate discipline, determination, and unity throughout the competition.
As part of efforts to strengthen team cohesion ahead of the match, the players are expected to camp at his residence, providing them with an opportunity to bond, prepare mentally, and reinforce their collective focus before taking to the field.
The arrangement is intended to build camaraderie among team members and encourage a coordinated approach as they prepare to face their opponents.
MoPED-FC was scheduled to face the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., at the designated playing field.
The encounter marks an important opportunity for the team to translate its preparations into performance while representing the ministry in the inter-ministerial sporting competition.
The ceremony concluded with a prayer session seeking divine guidance, protection, and success for the players throughout the tournament.
Team Captain Ibrahim Kallon delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to Minister Barlay, the ministry’s management, ECOWAS, and all those who contributed to the jersey unveiling and the team’s preparations.
The initiative highlights the growing role of workplace sports in promoting staff engagement, institutional pride, and cooperation among public sector employees.
For MoPED, the campaign offers an opportunity to demonstrate that the values required to succeed on the football pitch teamwork, discipline, commitment, and shared responsibility are equally important in advancing the ministry’s broader development objectives.