Accra: The Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST) has donated assorted prayer and other items to the Tse Addo Central Mosque in Accra in memory of its late Minister, Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, on the first anniversary of his death. Dr. Mohammed was among eight individuals who lost their lives in a helicopter crash at Sikaman-Brofoyedru in the Adansi South District of the Ashanti Region on August 6, 2025.
According to Ghana News Agency, the donation was made as part of efforts to sustain the late minister's legacy of charity and devotion to Islam. The items donated included 200 copies of the Holy Qur'an, 50 prayer mats, 50 ablution containers, 30 school bags, 50 packs of bottled water, and 10 boxes of biscuits. Mr. Yusif Sulemana, Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, presented the items on behalf of Mr. Emmanuel Amarh Kofi Buah, the caretaker Minister of Environment, Science and Technology. He expressed that the gesture was part of commemorative activities marking the first anniversary of Dr. Mohammed's passing and aimed at continuing the charity work he championed during his lifetime.
Mr. Sulemana described Dr. Mohammed as a devout Muslim, a humble leader, and a man whose exemplary character inspired many within and outside the government. He shared personal anecdotes of their close relationship in Parliament, particularly on the Public Accounts Committee, highlighting Dr. Mohammed's unwavering commitment to worship and his encouragement for others to deepen their faith. Mr. Sulemana also personally donated GHS20,000 towards the upkeep of the mosque, emphasizing the importance of legacy over longevity.
He urged family members, friends, and colleagues to support charitable causes, such as donating Qur'ans and assisting places of worship, as a way to remember Dr. Mohammed. The Tse Addo Central Mosque was selected for the donation because it was where the late minister regularly brought his children to study the Holy Qur'an and deepen their understanding of Islam.
Mr. Sulemana announced that additional commemorative activities would be held, including a special prayer session led by the National Chief Imam in honor of the late minister. Receiving the donated items, Alhaji Zakaria Suleman, Chief Imam of the Tse Addo Central Mosque, expressed gratitude to the ministry and all those who contributed to the donation.
He noted that the mosque already had over 400 copies of the Holy Qur'an, many of which were previously donated by the late Dr. Mohammed, reflecting his longstanding commitment to supporting Islamic education. The Chief Imam prayed for Allah's blessings upon the donors, the family of the late minister, and the nation, urging Muslims to strive for righteous living, as what mattered most was not wealth or status but one's faith and obedience to their maker at the end of their life's journey.