The Ministry of Defence has paid glowing tribute to the late Dr Edward Omane Boamah, describing his brief tenure as Defence Minister as one marked by transformative leadership, innovation, and a firm commitment to excellence.
They described him as an exceptional, a visionary, and a dedicated leader whose passion for service left an indelible mark on Ghana’s defence architecture.
At a solemn state funeral held at the Black Star Square this morning, Friday August 15, the Ministry in their tribute said Dr Boamah’s vision was to see a modernised and expanded Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) which is responsive to the nation’s needs, with highly motivated troops and committed civilian staff contributing to national development.
“This was not just a statement but a mission he pursued with passion, hence retooling the GAF and ensuring the welfare of personnel were his priorities,” the tribute noted.
They recounted that Dr Boamah empowered those around him.
It read, “He was a leader who empowered those around him. He entrusted his dep minister with significant responsibilities fostering team work and shared purpose.”
“Though he wanted to be appraised of challenges, he demanded plausible solutions, encouraging critical thinking and accountability,” the statement added.
“As we mourn his passing, we take solace in the indelible mark he left on Ghana’s defence architecture and the lives he touched. He was a good man with a kind heart, a leader we will greatly miss,” the Ministry concluded.
Dr Omane Boamah, who served as Minister for Defence, was among eight fallen heroes who died in a helicopter crash on August 6 in Adansi Akrofuom.
The crash also claimed the lives of several other government officials, including Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and Vice Chairman of the NDC Samuel Sarpong, along with three crew members Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The ceremony brought together government officials, security service personnel, family, and citizens to pay their last respects.
