The Office of the Vice President kicked off its title defence in the 2026 Inter-Ministerial, Departmental and Agency (MDA) Football League with a narrow 1-0 victory over the Sierra Leone Immigration Department on Saturday, October 17, at the National Stadium Practice Field in Freetown.
Ron Gandy Williams scored the decisive goal to secure all three points for the defending champions in a closely contested opening fixture.
The tournament, organised by the Ministry of Sports (MOS) and the National Sports Authority (NSA), brings together government ministries, departments and agencies to promote unity, teamwork and productivity through football.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of Sports Madam Augusta James-Teima expressed appreciation to President Julius Maada Bio for his continued support towards sports development, including the annual MDA League.
She encouraged participating institutions to embrace this year’s theme, “From the Office to the Field, Driving Peace and Productivity Through Sports.”
The Sports Minister also congratulated the Office of the Vice President for winning the inaugural edition and called on all participating teams to demonstrate discipline, integrity and professionalism throughout the competition.
“I wish to assure all the teams of a successful tournament with integrity, discipline and professionalism among government workers,” she stated.
Minister of Political Affairs Hon. Amara Kallon performed the ceremonial kick-off, officially marking the start of the tournament.
More than 40 ministries, departments and agencies are expected to participate in this year’s competition, making it a major sporting engagement among public-sector institutions.
The opening ceremony attracted several prominent government and sporting personalities, including Minister of Labour Hon. Umaro Napoleon Koroma, Deputy Chief Immigration Officer Amadu Bah, Sierra Leone Football Association Secretary General Ing. Mohamed Benson Bawoh, and NSA Board Chairman Hon. Ibrahim Nyelenkeh.
Sports Ambassador Charlie Bio Jr. and Peace Ambassador Abu Bakarr S. Turay, popularly known as Shady Baby, were also among those in attendance.
Meanwhile, the competition continues on Sunday, October 18, with Parliament scheduled to face the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE).
The 2026 MDA League is expected to provide a platform for government workers to strengthen relationships beyond their offices while promoting peace, physical fitness and cooperation through sports.
Source: National Sports Authority (NSA) Media