Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has called on Ghanaians to remain united and uphold the enduring values of the eight victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash.

Speaking at the Evening of Reflections and Memorial Ceremony on Saturday, August 9, Debrah said the fallen leaders and service members would want the nation to “wipe our tears” and carry forward the principles they stood for — patriotism, selfless leadership, bravery, and devotion to God and country.

Honoring the Values of the Fallen

“On this day, I am sure our comrades will be urging us to wipe our tears. They would be telling us to remain united as a people and as a nation. More importantly, they would be urging us to continue striving to live by the values they stood for and died for,” he said.

The Chief of Staff added that the tragedy serves as a reminder of Ghana’s spirit of oneness, a spirit he said has been evident in the unity displayed across political and social divides.

The Tragic Loss

The crash, which occurred in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, claimed the lives of:

• Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Defence Minister

• Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation

• Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

• Dr Samuel Sarpong, National Vice Chairman of the NDC

• Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate

• Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

• Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu

• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

National Mourning and Funeral Arrangements

As part of the three-day national mourning period declared by the President, the government has announced the burial rites for the two Muslim victims — Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed and Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed.

In line with Islamic tradition, Janazah prayers will be held on Sunday, August 10 at 2:00 p.m. at the Forecourt of the State House, followed by burial at the Military Cemetery in Accra.

An inter-denominational state funeral for all eight victims is scheduled for Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square.

Summary:
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah’s message following the Ghana helicopter crash is one of unity, shared grief, and commitment to the values the victims lived and died for. As the nation mourns, his call is for Ghanaians to honor their memory through service, patriotism, and solidarity.

source: myjoyonline

The Ministry of Defence has paid heartfelt tribute to the late Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, celebrating his visionary leadership, dedication, and enduring impact on Ghana’s Armed Forces.

Speaking at the Evening of Reflection and Memorial for the eight victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash, Colonel Ernestina Assan said Dr. Boamah’s tenure as Defence Minister, though brief, was deeply transformative.

A Leader with Vision and Dedication

Col. Assan described Dr. Boamah’s leadership as a blend of diplomacy, inclusivity, and innovation.

“Through his transformative leadership and unwavering dedication, he left an indelible mark,” she noted.

Under his stewardship, the Defence Ministry:

• Fostered stronger civil-military relations

• Modernised the Ghana Armed Forces for contemporary challenges

• Prioritised the welfare of both military personnel and civilian staff

Champion of Innovation and Professionalism

Dr. Boamah’s passion for agriculture and digitalisation introduced fresh ideas and innovation within the ministry.
His commitment to professionalism at all levels strengthened the armed forces’ readiness and public trust.

Col. Assan also highlighted his strategic communication skills, which boosted the ministry’s public engagement and image.

A Leader Who Listened

Known for his approachable demeanor and open-door policy, Dr. Boamah empowered staff to share ideas freely. His empathetic management style ensured that everyone felt valued and heard.

“His positive, productive, and progressive approach was contagious and transformative,” Col. Assan said.

A Lasting Legacy

The Ministry described Dr. Boamah’s legacy as one of a modernised, motivated, and responsive armed forces. They bid farewell to:

“A leader whose service was exemplary, whose vision was transformative, and whose memory will remain eternal.”