The Embassy of the Republic of Colombia in Accra has expressed profound sorrow over the deaths of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence, and Hon. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, who died in a military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
In a formal condolence message addressed to President John Dramani Mahama and the people of Ghana, Colombia described the incident as a tremendous tragedy not only for Ghana but for the continent and global community.
“On behalf of the Government and People of the Republic of Colombia, we extend our most heartfelt condolences to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana; the bereaved families; and the entire Ghanaian nation during this time of profound grief and national mourning”
Embassy of the Republic of Colombia
The embassy acknowledged the immense contributions of the two deceased ministers to national defense, environmental protection, and technological advancement. It praised their “exemplary dedication, unwavering patriotism, and steadfast commitment,” noting that their legacy will remain “etched in the nation’s history and in the hearts of those they served with distinction.”
“We also honor and remember the other six souls who perished alongside these distinguished leaders. Their service, sacrifice, and commitment to Ghana shall never be forgotten”
Embassy of the Republic of Colombia
The Colombian government affirmed its unwavering solidarity with the Government and People of Ghana, in this hour of immense sorrow. It prayed that the “Almighty grants eternal rest to the souls of the departed and bestows strength, comfort, and unity upon the nation” as it navigates through this difficult period.
India Condoles With Ghana
The Government of India has also sent a condolence message to the Government and people of Ghana, describing the incident as deeply tragic.
In its address, India noted the crash had claimed the lives of “several high-ranking officials,” including Ghana’s Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, and Environment, Science, and Technology Minister, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the Government and the people of the Republic of Ghana during this time of national mourning. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by this unfortunate incident. May the departed souls rest in eternal peace”
High Commission of India
The two statements follow a cascade of diplomatic gestures from across the globe, with world leaders continuing to send condolences and offer support. Both Colombia and India recognized the scale of the tragedy and the calibre of leadership lost.
The tributes have added to an already emotionally charged atmosphere in Ghana, where the nation has entered a three-day mourning period with all flags flying at half-mast.
Ghana’s leadership has come under pressure to investigate the cause of the crash, with many across the country and abroad calling for greater scrutiny into aviation safety standards, particularly within military operations. However, for now, the focus remains on honouring the memories of the eight victims.
The Ghanaian public and diplomatic missions alike continue to visit the homes of the deceased to pay tribute. Dr. Omane Boamah and Hon. Murtala Muhammed were considered key pillars in President John Dramani Mahama’s government, holding portfolios critical to national security and environmental policy.
International expressions of grief are not just acts of protocol but a recognition of the broader implications of the loss. Colombia noted that the fallen officials’ work had resonance beyond Ghana’s borders and would “continue to inspire future generations of Ghanaians in building a stronger, more prosperous nation.”
As messages pour in, flags remain at half-mast, and wreaths are laid, Ghana prepares to bid farewell to two of its most prominent sons and six others who gave their lives in the service of the nation.
