Finance Minister and Acting Defence Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has paid tribute to the late Defence Minister, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, describing him as a patriotic and selfless leader who was committed to strengthening the Ghana Armed Forces.
Speaking at the maiden annual public lecture held in honour of Dr Omane Boamah on Tuesday, August 4, Dr Ato Forson said the late minister championed reforms aimed at building a modern and professional military while prioritising the welfare of service personnel.
“He served Ghana with conviction. He strengthened our institutions. He believed in leadership anchored in service and the national interest. As Minister for Defence, he worked to build a modern, professional, and capable Ghana Armed Forces. He focused and placed great importance on the welfare of our service personnel,” he said.
He further noted that the annual lecture series will preserve the late minister’s ideals, while inspiring future generations to serve with integrity.
Omane Boamah was among eight people who lost their lives in a tragic Ghana Air Force helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
The Z-9EH helicopter crash occurred while the aircraft was travelling to the Ashanti Region, resulting in the deaths of several senior public officials and military personnel.
Others who died in the crash included the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation and Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr. Samuel Sarpong; and National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Vice Chairman, Samuel Aboagye.
Also killed were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flight Officer Manaen Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah of the Ghana Air Force.
The annual lecture was held as part of efforts to preserve Dr. Omane Boamah’s memory and highlight the principles and ideals that guided his public service and commitment to Ghana.
