The Ministry of Defence has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Minister, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, one of the eight who lost their lives in the August 6 helicopter crash.

The ministry described him as “an exceptional, visionary, and educated leader” whose passing has left “an irreplaceable void” in the Ghana Armed Forces and the nation at large.

Speaking at the Black Star Square on Friday during the state farewell for the eight fallen heroes, the ministry said Dr. Boamah, who assumed office on January 30, 2025, demonstrated transformative leadership, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence during his brief tenure.

“His vision was to modernise the Ghana Armed Forces, ensure they were responsive to the country’s needs, and build a motivated, well-equipped force,” the ministry said. “This was not mere rhetoric, but a mission he pursued with passion—retooling the Armed Forces and prioritising the welfare of personnel.”

“As part of the Reset Ghana Agenda, Dr. Boamah championed the president’s directive to revitalise the Defence Industries Holding Company Limited (DIHOC),” the ministry noted, adding that his goal was “to expand into defence industrial development in partnership with the private sector.”

It added, “His dream was for DIHOC to lead Ghana’s industrial revolution, achieve self-sufficiency in military production, and reduce reliance on imports”—a report on this ambitious project was due to reach his desk just days after his untimely death.

The ministry praised Dr Boamah’s collaborative leadership style, highlighting how he entrusted his deputy with key responsibilities, fostered teamwork, and supported major national initiatives such as the Feed Ghana Programme, the 24-hour economy, and the fight against illegal mining.

“His directive for the Armed Forces to venture into farming, especially poultry, was a practical step to cut food expenditure. A medical doctor by profession, he also worked to improve healthcare delivery within the Ghana Armed Forces,” they said.

“Though he welcomed challenges, he always demanded solutions, encouraging critical thinking and accountability,” the ministry added. “He was a good man with a kind heart—a leader we will greatly miss.”

The ministry extended its deepest condolences to his family, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the nation, praying for the souls of Dr. Boamah and the seven others who perished with him to rest in perfect peace. “Farewell, our honourable minister. Your service was exemplary, your vision transformative, and your memory eternal,” they concluded.