President Mahama unveils cenotaph in honour of late Dr. Omane Boamah
President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a cenotaph in honour of the late Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, as Ghana marked the first anniversary of the military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight people on August 6, 2025.
The cenotaph, erected within the Ministry of Defence in Accra, features a statue of the late minister and serves as a lasting tribute to his distinguished service, leadership and sacrifice to the nation.
The solemn ceremony formed part of activities commemorating the one-year anniversary of the tragic crash that claimed the lives of Dr. Omane Boamah and seven others.
President Mahama lit a memorial candle on behalf of the nation in honour of the departed. Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang also lit a candle on behalf of the Armed Forces Council, while Finance Minister and Acting Defence Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, lit a candle on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.
The event drew senior government officials, military commanders, members of the Ghana Armed Forces, family members, clergy, friends, colleagues and other dignitaries. Burkina Faso’s Minister for War and Patriotic Defence, Brigadier General Célestin Simporé, attended as Special Envoy.
In an emotional tribute, President Mahama described Dr. Omane Boamah as “one of a rare kind,” recalling him as a loyal friend, trusted adviser and committed public servant whose dedication to Ghana would never be forgotten.
The President said the tribute was deeply personal, noting that the late minister had stood by him through many defining moments of his political career with unwavering loyalty and commitment.
Speaking at the ceremony, Acting Defence Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said Dr. Omane Boamah transformed the Ministry of Defence through reforms that strengthened professionalism, discipline and accountability within the Ghana Armed Forces.
He noted that the late minister also championed improved welfare for veterans and promoted stronger civil-military relations, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to inspire future generations of military and public service leaders.
Dr. Forson called on Ghanaians to uphold Dr. Omane Boamah’s values of patriotism, integrity and selfless service. He also announced the publication of a special commemorative edition of The Defender magazine, dedicated to documenting the late minister’s contributions to Ghana’s defence sector and preserving his legacy for generations to come.
The unveiling of the cenotaph and memorial ceremony underscored the nation’s resolve to honour the memory of Dr. Omane Boamah and the seven others who lost their lives while serving Ghana.
