By Albert Oppong-Ansah
Accra, Aug. 12, GNA – Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, died alongside seven other state officials in a military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
The delegation was travelling to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region for the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), aimed at reforming Ghana’s small-scale mining sector.
Tributes have poured in from Ghana, across Africa, and the global environmental community for Dr Murtala Muhammed, recognised for his unwavering commitment to clean air, environmental justice, and sustainable development.
The Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) in a statement described Dr Muhammed as “a tireless advocate for clean air” and commended his role in advancing Ghana’s leadership in the Africa Clean Air Programme.
Ms. Inger Andersen, Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme, said: “He was deeply respected by environmental leaders across the African continent and global stage,” noting his recent election to the Bureau of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN).
Pure Earth Ghana referred to him as “a strong advocate for environmental health” and acknowledged his contributions to addressing lead and mercury pollution.
A Rocha Ghana, through Mr. Daryle Bonsu, described the incident as “a national tragedy” and called for renewed efforts against illegal mining.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stated: “Dr Murtala Muhammed was a man of deep intellect, conviction, and vision,” highlighting his leadership in climate change adaptation, plastic waste reduction, biodiversity conservation, and responsible resource management.
The EPA noted that he launched initiatives such as “One Child, One Tree” and actively engaged stakeholders at the community level.
The statement also recognised Dr Edward Omane Boamah, a former Minister for Environment, for his foundational contributions to Ghana’s environmental governance.
“May his memory continue to inspire a greener, more equitable, and sustainable Ghana. We will honour him best by delivering on the goals he set so passionately,” th EPA said.
Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed and Dr Edward Omane Boamah were among the eight victims of the crash, which occurred at Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofuom District.
A state funeral is scheduled for August 15, 2025, at Black Star Square in Accra
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey