The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has paid a solemn and heartfelt tribute to eight distinguished citizens who perished in the August 6 helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region, honouring their service to the nation and legacy of dedication.
The crash, which occurred in the Adansi Akrofrom District as the victims were en route to Obuasi for the launch of the government’s Cooperative Mining Initiative, claimed the lives of key military officers and senior government officials.
Speaking at the interdenominational state funeral service, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, described the fallen as men who “served well,” pledging that their commitment would continue to shape the Ghana Armed Forces’ operational doctrines in the years ahead.
“As the bugle sounds and the night holds its silence, we salute them – Dr. Omane Boamah, Squadron Leader Anala, Flying Officer Ampadu, and Sergeant Mensah – brave men who served with pride and fell with honour”
Lieutenant General William Agyapong, Chief of the Defence Staff
Among those honoured was Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, whose tenure, though short, left a transformative mark on Ghana’s defence architecture.
Lieutenant General Agyapong outlined his achievements, citing his retooling and operationalisation of the Armed Forces, advocacy for merit-based recruitment, bridging of the accommodation deficit, revitalisation of the Defence Industries Holding Company Limited (DIHOC), and prioritisation of troop and veteran welfare.
He described Dr. Boamah as not only a leader but also a role model and mentor who empowered those around him. His influence, the military chief noted, was characterised by depth of thought, industry, and grace, fostering teamwork and a shared sense of purpose.
Honouring Distinguished Service in the Air
The funeral also celebrated the exceptional skill and professionalism of Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, a pilot commissioned into the Operations Branch of the Air Force in 2014.
Trained in the United States and certified with both a Private and Commercial Rotorcraft Licence as well as an Advanced Instrument Ratings certification, Squadron Leader Anala was commended for integrating flight safety protocols into mission planning and for mentoring junior officers in combat preparedness.
Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, commissioned in 2021 after distinguished training at the Royal Air Force Training Academy, was hailed as a rising star in air operations. His precision in navigation, adaptability across mission profiles, and meticulous mission planning marked him as a dependable co-pilot and a clear prospect for future command.
Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah was remembered for his crucial role in maintaining the operational readiness of the Z-9 helicopter fleet at No.8 Helicopter Wing.
Enlisted in 2011 and certified in 2016, he was lauded for his diagnostic expertise, adherence to airworthiness standards, and ability to execute time-sensitive maintenance under operational pressures. His mentorship of junior technicians ensured that high technical and operational standards were sustained.
A Nation’s Collective Grief
Two of the victims – Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed – were buried earlier on August 10.
The remaining six, including Dr. Omane Boamah, Samuel Aboagye, National Democratic Congress Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Anala, Flying Officer Ampadu, and Sergeant Mensah, were laid to rest in a ceremony marked by solemn dignity and military honours.
The Ghana Armed Forces, through the Chief of the Defence Staff, extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved families, assuring them that the sacrifices of their loved ones would never be forgotten.
“May the peace and comfort of the Almighty God be with you. Their skills and dedication will continue to influence our training, maintenance, and operational doctrines for years to come. They will be sorely missed but fondly remembered”
Lieutenant General William Agyapong, Chief of the Defence Staff
The nation mourns not only the loss of lives but the passing of individuals whose service and commitment have left an enduring imprint on Ghana’s military and governance.
The memory of their courage, professionalism, and selflessness, as expressed in the tributes, will continue to inspire the next generation of officers and public servants.
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