The Builsa Traditional Council has formally requested that the 12th Mechanised Military Barracks in Sandema be renamed in memory of their fallen son, Squadron Leader Peter Abaafemi Anala.

The senior Ghana Air Force pilot was one of the eight individuals who tragically died in a military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.

The proposal, submitted to the Chief of Defence Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), argues that naming the barracks "Squadron Leader Peter Abaafemi Anala Military Barracks" would be a fitting and eternal tribute.

Signed by the Paramount Chief of the Bulsa Traditional Area, Nab Azagsuk Azantilow II, the request highlights Anala’s exemplary service, bravery, and patriotism.

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A highly skilled pilot, Squadron Leader Anala was a distinguished officer of the Ghana Air Force's No. 8 Helicopter Wing, renowned for his expertise in navigating the skies.

His untimely death came during a national mission to combat illegal small-scale mining, locally known as galamsey, a menace that threatens Ghana's environment and economy.

The helicopter crash at Adansi Brofoyedu in the Ashanti Region also claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and five other officials.

The Traditional Council’s proposal is a call to action that extends beyond a local tribute, aiming to inspire a new generation of service members.

The Council's statement read: “It is a common and respected tradition worldwide to name military facilities after officers who have fallen in the line of duty. This gesture aligns with best practices in honouring military heroes.”

The Council believes this honour will serve multiple purposes: immortalising Anala’s contributions, inspiring current and future military officers, and strengthening the bond between the Armed Forces and the Builsa community.

They stressed that the tribute would not only preserve the memory of the fallen officer but also reinforce Ghana's commitment to recognizing the valour and sacrifices of all its servicemen and women.

Squadron Leader Anala's last mission was to Obuasi to launch the government’s “Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme” (rCOMSDEP), an ambitious initiative aimed at reforming artisanal mining to make it safer and more sustainable.

His death, alongside his colleagues, has underscored the immense risks faced by those working to safeguard Ghana’s resources and sovereignty.