President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a cenotaph in honour of the late Defence Minister, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, marking the first anniversary of the tragic Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight senior government officials and military personnel.
The memorial, located within the Ministry of Defence in Accra, was officially unveiled on Thursday, August 6, 2026, exactly one year after the fatal helicopter crash during an official anti-illegal mining mission.
Cenotaph Pays Tribute to Dr Edward Omane Boamah’s Legacy
The newly unveiled cenotaph features a statue of Dr Edward Omane Boamah and stands as a permanent symbol of his dedication, leadership, and service to Ghana.
The ceremony, organized by the Ministry of Defence, formed part of activities commemorating the one-year anniversary of the August 6, 2025 tragedy.
Following the unveiling, President Mahama lit a memorial candle on behalf of the nation in remembrance of Dr Omane Boamah and the seven other victims who lost their lives in the military helicopter crash.
National Leaders Honour the Departed Eight
During the solemn ceremony:
- Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang lit a memorial candle on behalf of the Armed Forces Council.
- Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, who is currently serving as Caretaker Defence Minister, lit a candle on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.
The ceremony reflected the nation’s continued commitment to honouring the sacrifice and service of the fallen heroes.
Mahama Describes Omane Boamah as a Loyal Friend and Dedicated Public Servant
Speaking at the event, President Mahama paid an emotional tribute to the late Defence Minister, describing him as “one of a rare kind.”
According to the President, Dr Omane Boamah’s loyalty, integrity, friendship, and unwavering commitment to national service will forever remain part of Ghana’s history.
President Mahama noted that the tribute was especially personal because the late minister had been a trusted adviser and loyal companion throughout his political journey.
Inter-Faith Memorial Service Held for Helicopter Crash Victims
Earlier in the day, a National Inter-Faith Memorial Service was held to commemorate all eight victims of the August 6, 2025 Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash.
The memorial service brought together:
- Senior government officials
- Religious leaders
- Traditional authorities
- Members of the Ghana Armed Forces
- Families of the deceased
- Political leaders and other dignitaries
Religious leaders offered prayers for the departed while encouraging Ghanaians to uphold the values of patriotism, sacrifice, unity, and public service exemplified by the victims.
Remembering the Ghana Armed Forces Helicopter Crash
The tragic accident occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region when a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter crashed while transporting officials from Accra to Obuasi on an official mission to support efforts against illegal mining (galamsey).
The incident claimed the lives of eight distinguished public servants and military officers.
Names of the Eight Victims
The victims of the August 6, 2025 military helicopter crash were:
- Dr Edward Omane Boamah – Defence Minister
- Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed – Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
- Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
- Dr Samuel Sarpong – NDC National Vice Chairman
- Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
- Flight Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
- Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu
Nation Continues to Honour Fallen Heroes
The unveiling of the cenotaph and the national memorial activities underscore the government’s commitment to preserving the legacy of the Departed Eight, whose service and sacrifice continue to inspire Ghanaians.
The monument at the Ministry of Defence now stands as a lasting reminder of their dedication to protecting the nation and advancing Ghana’s development.
Source: newsthemegh.com