On the morning of Wednesday, August 6, 2025, time stood still for many Ghanaians—including me. As breaking news of a military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region began to trickle in, dread settled like a thick fog. I froze. My fingers trembled as I refreshed my news portals, my eyes fixed on CitiNewsroom.com as I had just entered day two of my 10-day leave, hoping—praying—that all aboard had miraculously survived.

But deep down, I felt the unease grow. The whispers on social media turned to wails of sorrow. A name I didn’t expect to see among the missing began to circulate: Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah.

I clutched my phone tighter, unable to shake the goosebumps, the nausea, the disbelief. How could this be true? Then came the grim confirmation. Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, broke the nation’s heart: all eight passengers aboard the Ghana Armed Forces helicopter had perished.

The Fallen Eight: Profiles in Service and Sacrifice

These were not just names. They were fathers, brothers, husbands, sons, mentors—public servants who dedicated their lives to Ghana. They were our own, and now they are gone.

1. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah

He was a distinguished Ghanaian physician, public servant, and politician who served as Ghana’s Minister of Defence from February 2025 until his tragic death in a military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025. A stalwart member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), he previously held several key roles including Minister for Communications, Deputy Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Deputy Minister for Youth and Sports, and Spokesperson to President John Mahama. Dr Boamah attended Pope John Senior High School and trained as a medical doctor at the University of Ghana Medical School, later earning a Master’s in Health Policy Planning and Financing from both the London School of Economics and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. As a student, he was President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) and actively involved in youth leadership. He was said to have been set to release a book on the late President John Atta Mills, titled “A Peaceful Man in an African Democracy,” later this year. His legacy endures as a man of intellect, integrity, and unwavering dedication to Ghana’s progress.

2. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed

Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed (14 December 1974 – 6 August 2025) was a Ghanaian politician and Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, serving as Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation until his tragic death in the 2025 Ghana Air Force helicopter crash. A trained teacher with a certificate from Tamale College of Education, he also held master’s degrees in Development Planning and International Relations and Diplomacy from KNUST and the University of Ghana respectively. In 2009, he served as Deputy National Coordinator of the National Youth Employment Programme and later served as Deputy Minister of Information and Media Relations and Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry under President John Mahama. After representing Nanton Constituency in Parliament from 2012 to 2016, he returned in 2021 as MP for Tamale Central and was re-elected in 2024. In Parliament, he served on the Public Accounts and Trade and Industry committees. He was appointed Minister for Environment in January 2025. A devout Muslim, Murtala Muhammed was married and a father of three.

3. Limuna Mohammed Muniru

Limuna Mohammed Muniru (8 August 1967 – 6 August 2025) was a Ghanaian politician who once served as Northern Regional Minister, Upper East Regional Minister, and Minister of State at the Presidency, and at the time of his death, was the Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator. Born in Langbonto, Damongo, he had his basic education in Tamale, attended Damongo Secondary School and Tamale Secondary School, and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Ghana, with further studies at GIMPA and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. Muniru was married with four children and tragically died in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, just two days before his 58th birthday.

4. Samuel Aboagye

Samuel Aboagye was a Ghanaian engineer and politician from Obuasi in the Ashanti Region. A former Parliamentary Candidate for the National Democratic Congress in the 2024 general election, he attended AngloGold Ashanti Basic School and later studied at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Until his passing, he served as the Deputy Director-General of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO).

5. Samuel Sarpong

Samuel Sarpong (born 10 November 1957) was a Ghanaian educationist and politician from Ejisu in the Ashanti Region. He attended Osei Tutu Senior High School and trained as a teacher at Wesley College, Kumasi, later teaching sports at Juabeng Secondary School from 1981 to 1984. In politics, he served as Central Regional Minister from 2013 to 2014 and later as Ashanti Regional Minister. At the time of his death, he was the Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He was previously honoured as a Communal Visionary Leader in 2021.

6. Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

Squadron Leader Peter Abaafeme Anala, born on November 2, 1989 in Siniesi in the Upper East Region, was a Ghanaian military officer and pilot. He attended St. James Seminary Secondary School in Sunyani and continued his education at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). He joined the Ghana Military Academy on June 20, 2013, and was commissioned into the Aircrew Branch on October 17, 2013. Until his passing, he served as a Z-9 Helicopter Pilot with the No. 8 Heli Wing. He was married and had one child.

7. Flying Officer Manean Twum-Ampadu

Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu was born on January 17, 1995, in Kwahu Adumoah in the Eastern Region. He was a Ghanaian Air Force pilot. He attended Aburi Presby Secondary School and later studied at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). He enlisted into the Ghana Military Academy on December 16, 2020, and was commissioned into the Aircrew Branch of the Ghana Air Force on November 4, 2021. Until his death, he served as a Z-9 Helicopter Pilot with the No. 8 Heli Wing. He was married to Naval Lieutenant Ewuradwoa Kumi-Kyereh, the Two Garrison Psychologist.

8. Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

A flight technician, Ernest was born on July 5, 1988, at Labadi in Accra, he attended the EMIT Electronic Institute in Accra and was recruited into the Air Force Recruit Training School on July 22, 2011. Sgt Mensah Addo graduated into the Engineering Branch of the Ghana Air Forces on January 22, 2012. He got married recently.

These gallant men were said to be en route to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region to attend an anti-galamsey event- the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), a nationwide initiative to reform artisanal and small-scale mining. They were flying aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter for the assignment when the aircraft went off radar.

A Personal Reflection: A Week of Loss

It’s uncanny how grief comes in waves. Just two days before the crash, I had quietly marked 21 years since my father passed away, on Monday, August 4. The next day, I learned of a senior colleague’s father’s death. And then this—a national heartbreak that hit me like a punch to the gut. I didn’t know any of the victims personally, but I felt like I lost family.

Perhaps we all did.

…And So A Nation in Mourning

Ghana has been plunged into deep sorrow as the nationwide outpouring of grief has been both powerful and poignant, transcending politics, religion, and geography. From Parliament to classrooms, across and beyond the country, Ghanaians have come together in mourning, bound by a shared sense of loss and disbelief.

Across the country, flags were flown at half-mast for three days as directed by the Presidency, while citizens lit candlelight vigils in honour of the departed. In offices, people wore black and red while online, social media became a national memorial wall, with thousands of tributes pouring in—photos, videos, memories, and messages from people of all walks of life, including foreign diplomats and world leaders. Hashtags like #GhanaMourns, #FallenHeroes, and #NeverToBeForgotten has been trending. The mourning is beyond digital space as it is also into sacred spaces, with interfaith prayer services held in cathedrals, mosques, and community centers. Imams and pastors dedicated entire sermons to peace, unity, and remembrance.

On Sunday, August 10, the nation began the heartbreaking task of saying goodbye. In solemn ceremonies, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed and Limuna Mohammed Muniru were laid to rest, surrounded by family, dignitaries, colleagues, and tearful supporters. Their funerals were deeply spiritual, marked by Islamic prayers, Quranic recitations, and reflections on their service to the nation.

The pinnacle of the national mourning will be the official State Funeral for the fallen six heroes, scheduled for today Friday, August 15 at the historic Black Star Square in Accra. All is set for a full military service conducted by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). The funeral will be held in three parts — beginning with Bible and Qur’an recitals, followed by the main service, and ending with the burial.

The pre-burial programme will start at 7:30 a.m. and end at 9:00 a.m. The Vice President is expected to arrive at 8:50 a.m., with President John Dramani Mahama arriving at 9:00 a.m. to commence the state service. The three-hour ceremony will feature the reading of biographies of all eight crash victims, tributes from widows, children, government officials, and institutional representatives.

Following the service, the remains of six of the victims will be transported to the military cemetery at Tse Addo for interment, with burial rites jointly overseen by the GAF and the respective churches of the deceased.

Unity, Commitment to Purpose Over Partisan, Political Point-Scoring

As grief blankets the country, the message from all quarters—government, civil society, religious leaders, and citizens—is clear: this is not just a time of loss, but a moment of reflection, unity, and national renewal. The sacrifices of the eight men are being honoured not only in word, but in a growing national resolve to live out the values they embodied—service, courage, patriotism, and peace. There been calls for s strong stance against illegal mining (galamsey) in their honour, a call hopefully honours their legacy.

Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to rise above political divides and honour the fallen not only with words, but with action. “This is not a time for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a time for strength, for empathy, and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.”

Other statesmen and women echoed the President’s sentiments, urging Ghanaians to honour these lives by recommitting to national service and integrity.

Gone, But Not Forgotten

August 6, 2025, is now etched in Ghana’s collective memory. But while their final flight ended in tragedy, the legacies of these eight gallant men will endure. Through their service, their voices, their courage, and their dreams, they left behind a blueprint for leadership, sacrifice, and patriotism.

So today, we do not just mourn. We remember. We honour. And above all, we pledge: we will never forget.

Although your final journies may have ended abruptly, your impacts will echo across generations. Ghana mourns—but Ghana remembers.

Rest well, sons of Ghana. Your sacrifice will never be in vain.

The writer is a journalist with Channel One TV/Citi FM

EMAIL: [email protected]

The Auditor-General has reported significant misstatements and weaknesses in the 2024 Whole-of-Government Accounts (WGA), including an overstatement of Ghana’s public debt by GH¢138.91 billion, as well as deficiencies in financial reporting and asset management. 

The findings, contained in the Report of the Auditor-General on the Public Accounts of Ghana for the Year Ended 31 December 2024, followed an independent audit of the government’s consolidated accounts prepared by the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD) in line with the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921). 

The report, available to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), noted that the public debt figure captured in the WGA was significantly overstated, recommending that the CAGD work with the Ministry of Finance to carry out a comprehensive reconciliation to address both overstatements and omissions. 

It also revealed that GH¢74.24 billion recorded as provisions for investments should have been classified as impairment losses in accordance with International Public Sector Accounting Standard (IPSAS) 41. 

The Auditor-General urged the CAGD to strengthen its quality assurance processes during consolidation to prevent such errors. 

The audit further disclosed that receivables for assessed but uncollected income tax and Value Added Tax (VAT) as of December 31, 2024, were not recognised in the accounts, contrary to IPSAS 23 requirements, recommending closer coordination between the CAGD, the Ghana Revenue Authority, and the Ministry of Finance to align revenue recognition with the accrual basis. 

In addition, the report found that the CAGD had not conducted impairment tests on non-financial assets, as required under IPSAS 21 and IPSAS 26, and urged the establishment of a formal process for regular asset assessments. 

The audit also flagged inconsistencies in Inter-Company Account balances, which stood at GH¢7.99 billion at the start of the year and GH¢8.55 billion at year-end, instead of being zero after consolidation, calling for immediate investigation and correction. 

Another area of concern was the incomplete processing of transactions by covered entities through the Ghana Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS). The report called for strict enforcement of the PFM Act provisions, backed by capacity building, system upgrades, and sanctions for persistent non-compliance. 

On public investments, the Auditor-General observed that disinvestments amounting to GH¢10.30 billion and new investments of GH¢19.25 billion lacked adequate narrative and note disclosures, depriving the public of key information on rationale, implications, and expected returns. 

The report concluded that while the audit aimed to give an opinion on the government’s financial statements, the highlighted issues required urgent attention to enhance fiscal transparency, accuracy, and accountability in public financial management. 

Source: GNA 

play videoStanbic Bank Ghana donates GH¢500,000 to the Children Support Fund set up President Mahama

Stanbic Bank Ghana has donated GH¢500,000 to the Children Support Fund, established by the government to provide financial assistance to the children of the victims who died in the recent helicopter crash near Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region on August 6, 2025.

The announcement was made by President John Dramani Mahama during the State Funeral on August 15, 2025, held in honour of the eight gallant men who lost their lives in the line of duty to the nation.

In a statement signed by the bank’s Chief Executive, Kwamina Asomaning, Stanbic expressed its sympathy and support to the bereaved families, especially the children who have lost their parents.

“In the wake of the heartbreaking helicopter crash that claimed the lives of dedicated servicemen, our hearts go out to the families left behind, especially the children who now face life without their parents,” he said.

Asomaning added that the contribution was intended not only to provide financial relief but also to send a message of solidarity.

“We hope this contribution will serve not only as financial support, but also as a message of hope, that these children are not alone, and that Ghana stands with them.”

The eight lives lost included the Minister of Defence, Edward Omane Boamah; Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Muniru Mohammed; National Democratic Congress Vice Chairman, Samuel Sarpong; Deputy Director-General in Charge of Relief and Protocol at NADMO, Samuel Aboagye; Squadron Leader Peter Anala; Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo.

SP/MA

‘Last Wave’: Defence Press Corps captures Dr Omane Boamah’s final assignment

After the solemn state funeral at Black Star Square, the nation’s fallen heroes from the August 6 military helicopter crash were laid to rest with full military honours at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo.

The flag-draped caskets of the six victims, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and five others, were lowered into their graves to the mournful strains of the Last Post.

President John Mahama has already approved the posthumous promotion of the three Ghana Armed Forces personnel who perished in the August 6 helicopter crash.

Family members, dignitaries, and comrades from the Ghana Armed Forces stood in silence, many visibly moved, as the final salute echoed across the cemetery, bringing the three-day national mourning to a close.

On Sunday, August 10, the two Muslim victims of the crash were buried.

The former Minister for Environment, Dr Ibrahim Mohammed Murtala, and former Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Muniru Limuna Mohammed, were part of the group aboard the helicopter who died en route to the launch of the Responsible Co-operative Mining and Skills Development Programme (COMSDEP) in Obuasi to address illegal mining.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

play videoAlban Bagbin is the Speaker of Parliament

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has stated that the legacies and achievements of the eight (8) victims of the fatal military helicopter crash will last for generations.

Reading his tribute at the state funeral at the Black Star Square on Friday, August 15, 2025, he stated, “The heavens may have claimed their mortal forms, but their legacy remains etched in the laws they championed, the institutions they strengthened, the lives they transformed, and the hope they inspired. Even in their sudden departure, these gallant souls have gifted us a powerful reminder: life is fragile, tomorrow is never promised, and every moment matters.”

‘My miracle, answered prayer and life’s greatest honour’ – Dr Omane Boamah’s mother eulogies son

Alban Bagbin said the death of the eight (8) patriots is a reminder of the fragility of life.

“Life is fragile, tomorrow is never promised, and every moment matters. As we honour their legacy, may we draw strength and wisdom from the way they lived—and the way they left,” he said.

‘You always asked me, what will you do when I’m not around’ – Omane Boamah’s widow recounts

The deceased were onboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter that crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

JKB/VPO

Ghana Mourns: Caskets of fallen heroes carried with honour to the Black Star Square

World Bank reports says Ghanaians are ‘running on a treadmill’

The World Bank has noted that despite the expansion of Ghana’s economy, access to jobs remains a significant challenge for citizens.

According to the 9th edition of the World Bank’s Ghana Economic Update, the country’s workforce is “running on a treadmill”, shifting between jobs without any substantial improvement in income or job security.

Fuel prices to rise slightly in second pricing window of August – COMAC

Addressing labour market challenges and opportunities in Ghana’s economic landscape, the Bank outlined five key issues affecting the job market:

1 Insufficient job creation for a growing workforce

The Bank said Ghana’s jobs challenge is compounded by the rapid expansion of the young population entering the labour market.

Ghana’s youth population is projected to grow by 1.6 million over the next decade, reaching 11 million by 2035, according to the latest projections from the 2021 Population and Housing Census.

With more than half of Ghana’s population expected to be under 30 years old by then, the need to create decent and sustainable employment opportunities has never been more urgent.

2 Weak labour demand in productive sectors

The report noted that while urbanisation and structural transformation have driven labour out of agriculture, Ghana’s productivity growth has been hindered by a shift toward lower-productivity sectors.

“Instead of moving into high-productivity manufacturing or services, many workers transition into lower-productivity sectors such as government and trade services,” it stated.

3 Mismatch between rising education levels and availability of high-quality jobs

The informal sector continues to dominate Ghana’s labour market. In 2023, only 13% of workers aged 15–64 held high-quality jobs—defined as formal wage or high-skilled roles—down from 15% in 2012.

The World Bank noted that the scarcity of high-quality jobs has resulted in high levels of involuntary self-employment and widespread informal work arrangements.

Low-quality employment—such as low-skill own-account work, family labour, and informal wage work—accounts for 53% of the working population.

4. High job mobility but limited upward progression

Ghana’s labour market is marked by high worker turnover. About 40% of initially employed individuals shifted to a different employment status during the period studied, showing substantial mobility across jobs but with limited career advancement.

5. Persistent gender disparities in access to better jobs

The report highlighted that Ghana has a narrow gender gap in labour force participation, just 2 percentage points—which is relatively small for the country’s level of development.

However, the share of women in low-quality informal self-employment rose from 48.5% in 2012 to 57.4% in 2023, while men remain more likely to hold high-quality jobs, which account for nearly one-quarter of male employment.

World Bank commiserates with Ghana after fatal helicopter crash

SSD/MA

Mohammed Kudus earned high praise from the French press following his competitive debut for Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain.

The Ghana international, who joined Spurs from West Ham United for £55 million earlier this summer, was handed a starting role by manager Thomas Frank in Udine on Wednesday night. Tottenham dominated for much of the contest and led 2-0 after 70 minutes, only for PSG to stage a late comeback, scoring twice in the final nine minutes before edging the shootout 4-3.

Despite the disappointment of the result, Kudus’ display stood out. French outlet Foot Mercato rated him 7/10 – the highest of any Spurs player – highlighting his physical presence, direct dribbling, and competitive duel with Nuno Mendes. They noted his understanding with Richarlison, including creating England’s first major chance of the match. Maxifoot awarded him 6.5/10, commending his relentless pressing, defensive work rate, and attacking contributions. Ouest-France’s Made in Foot also rated him 7/10, again placing him at the top of Tottenham’s performance chart.

Statistically, Kudus was influential. In 79 minutes, he recorded 35 touches, completed 10 of 12 passes (83% accuracy), created three key chances, and won six of 13 duels. He also delivered four accurate crosses from four attempts, underlining his threat in wide areas.

Operating alongside Richarlison but frequently drifting to the right, the 25-year-old showcased his strength, pace, and ability to carry the ball under pressure. His willingness to press and recover possession added an extra dimension to Spurs’ attacking and defensive phases.

While Tottenham fell short of lifting the trophy, Kudus’ performance encouraged for the season ahead, suggesting the Ghanaian could quickly become a central figure in Frank’s plans

Ghana’s Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations has begun imposing a statutory fine on MultiChoice Ghana (DSTV) after the pay-TV provider missed an extended deadline to submit detailed subscription pricing data.

Details

The Ministry will fine Multichoice GHC 10,000 per day from 15th August, 2025. Minister Samuel Nartey George said DSTV was asked to provide a pricing breakdown under Ghana’s Electronic Communications Act (ECA), but the company failed to compile.

Other information requested included:

• Bouquet pricing breakdowns
• Tax components
• Comparative rates from at least six African countries

The submission deadline, extended to 11 August 2025, was missed. Without the data, the Ministry says it cannot fairly assess or negotiate DSTV’s subscription fees.

What they’re saying:

“From today, the Ministry will begin applying the statutory fine… until the full information is received,” — Hon. Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations.

“The law is clear, and we will enforce it. If necessary, we can freeze accounts to protect consumer interests.”

What’s next

• The Ministry has warned that if no price reduction agreement is reached by 6 September 2025, DSTV’s operating license could be suspended.
• Once data is submitted, regulators will review whether high prices are due to taxes or other factors and decide on affordability measures.

The Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana is urging the government to introduce a system that requires farmers to undergo training, certification, and licensing before they can operate.

The group warns that the widespread use of harmful chemicals and outdated farming methods is endangering public health and damaging Ghana’s reputation in international markets.

If left unaddressed, contaminated produce could lead to serious health risks locally and result in the rejection of Ghanaian exports abroad.

We can reduce oil bill by producing fuel from waste plastics – Prof Dankwah

Speaking to Citi Business News, Association President Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu emphasized the critical role farming plays in Ghana’s economy, contributing billions of cedis and employing a significant portion of the population.

He stressed that agriculture must be treated as a professional field.

“Farming is a profession like medicine, teaching, or law. Just as professionals like lawyers or doctors require licenses and training, farmers should receive proper training and licensing to operate,” he said.

The Association believes that with the right training and regulatory framework, unsafe practices can be minimized, and the public will be better protected from harmful food products.

How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience

By Linda Naa Deide Aryeetey 

Accra, Aug. 15, GNA – Widows of the eight distinguished Ghanaians who died in a helicopter crash on August 6, while en route to a national assignment, have paid heartfelt tributes to their husbands. 

At a State Funeral on Friday, August 15, Mrs Rita Omane Boamah, Widow of Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, the Defence Minister, remembered her husband as “a true family man” and “a genuine person with a pure heart of gold.” 

She recalled how he often asked, “Abena Rita, what will you do when I am not around?” – a question she never answered and still could not.  

She thanked her “Kofi B” for loving her, their children, her family, and all who knew him. 

Mrs Mohammed, Widow of Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, and MP for Tamale Central, said her husband embodied kindness, patience, love, deep faith, humility, and integrity.  

She described him as “trustworthy and dependable; someone people could call at any hour.”  

She prayed Allah granted him Jannatul Firdaus, adding: “We love you, we miss you, and we will carry your light with us always. Inshah Allah.” 

Hajia Zahara Ligbi, Widow of Hon. Mohammed-Muniru Limuna, former Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, called her husband a principled yet humble man who “inspired loyalty through character.”  

She said his absence left an irreplaceable void, remembering him as her partner, confidant, counsellor, and truest friend over 28 years of marriage. 

The Widow of Samuel Sarpong, former Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, described her husband as a man of strength, wisdom, and compassion.  

Recalling how he made their home a place of peace and unity, she prayed: “May the doors of heaven be open for you until we meet again.” 

Mrs Aboagye, Widow of Samuel Aboagye, former Deputy Director-General of NADMO, said his passing left “an emptiness nothing in this world could ever fill.”  

She commended him for his love, partnership, and care for their daughters, praying his soul found eternal peace. 

Mrs Anala, Widow of Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala of the Ghana Armed Forces, expressed deep grief: “Aaahhh, Bafemi, you left me broken! This was not the plan, Peter.”  

She remembered him as the go-to person for everyone, always sacrificing for others, and wished him a peaceful journey. 

Flight Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu’ s widow described him as her best friend, confidant, “quiet source of strength.” 

She thanked her “correct better half” for blessing her life with love and joy. 

Mrs Mensah, widow of the Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah of the Ghana Armed Forces, said her husband’s love for God was unmatched.  

He was her greatest supporter, and she fondly recalled his passion for the Z9 helicopter, which he treated like his “first child.”  

She bid him farewell, declaring, “Ah Death, shame on you! You have not won; Christ has, because Ernest died knowing Him as his Lord and Savior.” 

These tributes, woven with faith, love and respect, left an enduring reminder of lives lived with purpose, sending tears flowing down the cheeks of many of the mourners. 

For most at the Square, the words spoken will remain as vivid as the images of the eight flag-draped caskets: a call to honour their memory by emulating their service to Ghana. 

GNA 

Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe 

Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang

The Vice President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has expressed sorrow as she read a tribute to the eight fallen men who died in the military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.

In her tribute, she described her excitement and readiness to learn from her colleague Dr. Omane Boamah as they embarked on the journey to serve the nation.

“I was even more excited by the prospect of learning from you,” she said.

She further recalled how they pledged to work seriously on their prospective assignments to the nation.

She said, “You and I pledged to take this  assignment very, very seriously”.

She described Dr. Omane Boamah’s positive expectations of working stating, “You had a positive reaction to the prospect of working more closely with me,” she said.

She wished the eight comrades a peaceful rest and thanked them for their commitment to the nation.

“ I thank each one of you for your examples of selflessness, commitment to duty and ability of our country to be better for all of us,” she added.

She ended her tribute with her favorite poetic quote indicating that the dead are not really dead nor dead forever.

“The dead are not dead forever. They are in the flowing water, in the soul water, in the lonely place, in the crowd. The dead are not dead. The dead are not beneath the earth. They are on the fire.  In the moving plant, in the wounded place, in the moon, everywhere,” she stated.

By Florence Asamoah Adom

Bank of Ghana’s new headquarters

The Bank of Ghana has raised GH¢5.16bn through the sale of 56-day bills, as the central bank continues to deploy open market operations to manage liquidity in the banking system.

The bills, auctioned on August 13, 2025, at an interest rate of 24.9 per cent, form part of the BoG’s short-term securities programme aimed at regulating money supply and influencing market rates.

The auction results did not disclose the level of bids received or the issuance target.

BoG moves to reduce credit risk, enhance liquidity

Proceeds from such issuances are often channeled to the government to meet short-term financing needs, while the yields serve as a key indicator of the central bank’s monetary policy stance.

SP/AE

‘Last Wave’: Defence Press Corps captures Dr Omane Boamah’s final assignment