Defence Ministry honours Dr Omane Boamah with Cenotaph and Commemorative Magazine
The Ministry of Defence has unveiled a cenotaph and launched a special commemorative edition of the Defender Magazine in honour of the late former Defence Minister, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, to mark the first anniversary of the Z-9 helicopter crash.
The ceremony, held at the Ministry on Thursday, formed part of activities to commemorate the lives of the victims of the crash and celebrate Dr Omane Boamah’s contribution to Ghana’s national development and the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
Speaking at the ceremony, the Acting Minister for Defence, Mr Cassiel Ato Forson, said the commemoration was a national affirmation that the legacy of Dr Omane Boamah would continue to inspire the country.
He said the late Defence Minister distinguished himself through his commitment to professionalism, discipline, accountability and reforms that contributed to promoting the operational readiness of the GAF.
Mr Forson noted that Dr Omane Boamah also worked to strengthen collaboration between the military and civilian institutions, adding that his contribution to Ghana’s defence and security sector would remain significant.
Launching the special edition of the Defender Magazine, the Acting Minister described the publication as a lasting record of Dr Omane Boamah’s service and contribution to the development of the GAF.
He said the magazine would serve as an important reference for future generations of military leaders, public servants, researchers and Ghanaians seeking to understand the values that shaped the late minister’s public service.
“His greatest memorial will not be this cenotaph alone, but our collective resolve to build stronger institutions, place the national interest above all else and continue the work of building the Ghana he so faithfully served,” Mr Forson said.
The Deputy Minister for Defence, Mr Brogya Genfi, said the cenotaph was sponsored by FT Global Company Limited and constructed at no cost to the State.
He said the monument would preserve the memory of Dr Omane Boamah’s exemplary leadership and inspire future generations to serve the country with dedication and integrity.
The unveiling was followed by a candle-lighting ceremony in honour of Dr Omane Boamah and the other victims of the August 6, 2025 helicopter crash.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
