President John Dramani Mahama has described the late Defence Minister, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, as a trusted friend, loyal adviser and younger brother whose unwavering support remained constant throughout his political journey.

According to the President, the late minister stood by him during some of the most significant moments of his political career, offering guidance and encouragement whenever it was needed.

President Mahama made the remarks during the unveiling of a cenotaph in honour of Dr Omane Boamah at the Ministry of Defence.

The ceremony followed a National Interfaith Memorial Service held earlier at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), where government officials, political leaders, members of the Ghana Armed Forces, diplomats, religious leaders, family members and friends gathered to pay their last respects to the late minister.

Paying tribute, President Mahama said Dr Omane Boamah was more than a colleague in government, describing him as one of the most dependable people he had worked with.

"He was a friend, a younger brother, a loyalist and a close adviser. His loyalty and love for me was undoubted," the President said.

He stated that the late Defence Minister remained loyal to him throughout the successes and challenges of his political career.

"He stood by my side through all the momentous occasions of my political career," President Mahama added.

The President said Dr Omane Boamah's loyalty was driven by his commitment to national development and the principles they shared, rather than personal ambition.

He further described the late minister as humble, compassionate and dedicated to public service, saying those qualities distinguished him from many others.

According to President Mahama, Dr Omane Boamah's professionalism and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues, the security services and many Ghanaians.

"Omane was a great human being. His kind is difficult to find in our world today," he remarked.

The President also commended the Ghana Armed Forces for organising the military honours and unveiling the cenotaph in recognition of Dr Omane Boamah's service to the country.

He said the memorial serves as a lasting tribute to the late minister's contribution to strengthening Ghana's defence institutions and preserving national peace and security.

"I thank the Ghana Armed Forces for the honour being done for our former Minister today," he said.

President Mahama noted that Dr Omane Boamah occupies a unique place in Ghana's history as the only Minister for Defence to have died while serving in office.

"The only Defence Minister on record to have died in active service," the President stated.

He said this distinction underscores the need to preserve the late minister's legacy and ensure that future generations appreciate his service and sacrifices to the nation.

Events leading to his death

The late Defence Minister was among the eight gallant men who lost their lives on August 6 in a helicopter crash en route to a state assignment. In the early hours of Wednesday, the GAF announced that the helicopter carrying the deceased had gone off its radar.

The Minister and seven others, including the pilots serving in the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

The seven other individuals who lost their lives include Environment Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Dr Samuel Sarpong, former Obuasi East parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

Following the death of these statemen, several tributes have poured in, some from the general public, members of the Minority and even beyond Ghana.

The Council of State described the victims as “patriotic individuals who served our country with honour, diligence, and devotion,” urging citizens to uphold the values they embodied. The Minority Caucus in Parliament issued a heartfelt statement: “Your loss is our loss; your grief is our grief,” and praised the ministers for their intellect, patriotism, and commitment to Ghana’s future.

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia posted on X: “The fallen men paid the ultimate price in the service of our motherland, leaving a shocked nation in pain.” Minister Emelia Arthur wrote, “Farewell, my brother. I will remember the specific conversation we had forever.” Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu honored Murtala Mohammed, saying, “Your commendable efforts have created a legacy that inspires and uplifts our nation”.

Globally, leaders and institutions expressed solidarity. Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said the loss was not just Ghana’s but Africa’s. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan called the ministers “committed public servants” whose legacy should inspire future generations. The African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina described the tragedy as “devastating”.

The United Nations in Ghana, through Resident Coordinator Zia Choudhury, mourned the loss as a “national wound” and pledged continued support for Ghana during its mourning period. Kenyan President William Ruto extended condolences and assured Ghana of Kenya’s prayers and solidarity.

Profile of Defense Minister

Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah is a prominent Ghanaian politician, medical doctor, and Health Policy Planning and Financing Analyst with a rich background in strategic negotiation, solution-oriented leadership, environmental security and ICT including cybersecurity.

He possesses a strong educational foundation from esteemed institutions, including the University of Ghana Medical School, the London School of Economics and Political Science, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Harvard University.

His diverse educational background empowers him to merge his medical expertise with a deep understanding of financial planning and strategic analysis when solving complex challenges.

Dr. Omane Boamah has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership in various key roles. As Minister for Communications and Spokesperson for the President of Ghana, he championed several vital cybersecurity initiatives including Child Online Protection and led the rollout of the Government of Ghana's 4G LTE network (GOTA) which provides enhanced communication capabilities for security agencies.

As a former Civilian Employee of the Ministry of Defence, he has an unwavering commitment to national and human security. His innovative thinking and excellent negotiation skills, positions him as a forward-thinking leader, ready to address the complexities of modern security challenges and an advocate for the institution's dignity and well-being of service women and men.