Accra: Mr Emmanuel Amarh Kofi Buah, the Acting Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, has praised the late Dr Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed as a patriotic lawmaker and devoted public servant whose life exemplified excellence, humility, integrity, and selfless service to Ghana.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Buah made these remarks during an Adua prayer organized by the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology in honor of the late Minister, marking the first anniversary of the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash that claimed eight lives. The event, led by Sheikh Alhaji Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, was attended by senior government officials, Members of Parliament, traditional and religious leaders, family members, friends, and Ministry staff.
Addressing the attendees, Mr Buah emphasized the importance of celebrating Dr Mohammed's life, which was dedicated to public service. He highlighted Dr Mohammed's roles as a Deputy Minister of Information and Media Relations, Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, and Minister of Environment, Science and Technology. Throughout his career, Dr Mohammed demonstrated intellect, patriotism, and a commitment to improving the lives of Ghanaians.
Mr Buah noted Dr Mohammed's focus on environmental sustainability, scientific research, and technological innovation as crucial for Ghana's growth. He recalled the late Minister's belief that environmental protection transcended politics and was both a moral and spiritual obligation, quoting Dr Mohammed's reference to religious texts emphasizing environmental stewardship.
Despite his brief tenure, Dr Mohammed initiated significant reforms, including repealing Legislative Instrument 2462, which permitted mining in forest reserves, and hosting the 2025 African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence meeting, leading to the Accra Declaration. He also launched initiatives like Ghana's Blue Economy Strategy and the 'One Child, One Tree' campaign to promote environmental responsibility among children.
Mr Buah affirmed the Ministry's commitment to building on Dr Mohammed's legacy and urged Ghanaians to honor his memory by embracing values of honest leadership, environmental responsibility, scientific progress, and dedicated service. He concluded by acknowledging Dr Mohammed's enduring legacy and inspiration for future generations.
In a media interview, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, shared that Dr Mohammed viewed environmental protection as a moral duty and advocated for safeguarding natural resources. He emphasized that preserving the environment and combating illegal mining would best honor the memory of Dr Mohammed and the other crash victims.