Akandoh Reveals Emotional Reason for Naming Son After Late Defence Minister, Dr Omane Boamah

Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has revealed the deep personal bond that inspired him to name his youngest son after the late Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Ghana’s former Minister of Defence, who tragically died in the recent military helicopter crash.

In a heartfelt tribute shared on Facebook on Saturday, August 16, 2025, Akandoh described Dr Omane Boamah as a mentor, confidant, and constant source of guidance throughout his 12-year political journey.

“Dr Kofi Omane Boamah was my consultant in more ways than one, always ready to review a speech, refine a policy idea, or offer quiet wisdom when the noise of politics grew loud. He never withheld his brilliance and never let me walk alone,” Akandoh wrote.

According to him, the late minister’s unwavering support made such a profound impact that over a decade ago, he and his wife chose to name their youngest son “Kofi Omane Boamah” in his honour. “Rest well, Dr Omane Boamah. You lived with purpose, you led with grace, and you loved with sincerity,” he added.

Dr Omane Boamah was among eight people who died when a Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9 military helicopter crashed into a forested mountainside in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on August 6, 2025. The aircraft, which had departed from Kotoka International Airport in Accra, was headed to Obuasi for an event focused on combating illegal mining.

The crash claimed the lives of several high-profile officials, including Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, 1st Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO; and three crew members: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The tragic loss has drawn an outpouring of tributes from across the nation, with many highlighting Dr Omane Boamah’s dedication to public service and his kindness. For Akandoh, naming his son after the late minister remains a lasting testament to the life and legacy of a man who shaped both his personal and political path.