Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a cenotaph in memory of the late Defence Minister, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, at the premises of the Ministry of Defence in Accra. The cenotaph was erected by the Defence Ministry to honour Dr Omane Boamah, who lost his life together with seven others in a military helicopter tragedy while on a national assignment at Adansi Akrofuom in the Asante Region on August 6, 2025. It was established to immortalize the late Defence Minister for his contributions towards strengthening the Ghana Armed Forces and advancing Ghana's democratic governance.
According to Ghana News Agency, dignitaries who graced the occasion included Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Acting Minister of Defence and Minister of Finance; Burkina Faso Minister of Warfare and Patriotic Defence, General C©lestin Simpor©, service chiefs, Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, religious and traditional leaders, and members of the diplomatic community in Ghana.
President Mahama, in his remarks, said: "Today, we gather not only to unveil a cenotaph, but to reaffirm our nation's gratitude to a devoted patriot whose life was dedicated to the service of Ghana. This ceremony honours the memory of the late Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, who served our country with distinction as Minister of Defence." He highlighted Dr Omane Boamah's diligence, humility, and unwavering commitment to the security and stability of the Republic, noting that his contributions to strengthening the Ghana Armed Forces and advancing Ghana's democratic governance would remain part of the national story.
President Mahama expressed personal sentiments, stating that for him, the immortalization of Omane's memory is deeply personal. He described Omane as a friend, a younger brother, a loyalist, and a close advisor, emphasizing his loyalty and love. He expressed gratitude to the Ghana Armed Forces for the honour done to the late Defence Minister, who was the only Defence Minister on record to have died in active service.
He also thanked his Burkina Faso counterpart, President Ibrahim Traor©, for sending a special envoy in the person of his Minister for Warfare and Patriotic Defence, General C©lestin Simpor©, to represent him during this time of grief. President Mahama, on behalf of the Government and People of Ghana, extended their deepest sympathy to the late Dr Omane Boamah's family, friends, and colleagues.
"May they find comfort in the knowledge that his service to Ghana shall never be forgotten. May his soul continue to rest in perfect peace," the President concluded.