The Minister of Finance, Cassiel Ato Forson, has paid tribute to the late Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, describing his life as a lasting example of integrity, patriotism and selfless service to Ghana.
The Minister made the remarks at a ceremony to unveil a cenotaph in honour of the late former Minister for Defence, while also launching a special commemorative edition of the Defender magazine dedicated to his life and legacy.
According to the Minister, the occasion was not merely about unveiling a monument but represented a national affirmation that a life dedicated to service, integrity and patriotism would not be forgotten.
He said the cenotaph would serve as a lasting symbol of gratitude to Omane Boamah for his leadership, humility and commitment to strengthening the institutions he served.
“The true measure of a public officer is not the position one occupies, but the lasting impact one leaves on the nation,” the Minister said.
The Minister highlighted the late Omane Boamah’s contribution during his tenure at the Ministry of Defence, particularly his efforts to promote professionalism, discipline and accountability.
He said Omane Boamah championed reforms aimed at strengthening the operational readiness of the Ghana Armed Forces, while also advocating for the welfare of veterans.
According to him, the late Defence Minister also promoted stronger collaboration between military and civilian institutions as part of efforts to advance Ghana’s national security.
The Minister described Omane Boamah as a firm believer in strong institutions, accountable leadership and selfless service, saying these principles characterised his public life.
He noted that Omane Boamah demonstrated these values through “consistency, quiet determination and uncommon humility.”
As part of activities to preserve his legacy, the Ministry of Defence has published a special commemorative edition of the Defender magazine dedicated to the late Omane Boamah.
The publication chronicles his tenure as Defence Minister and highlights some of the reforms, initiatives and leadership decisions that contributed to strengthening the Ghana Armed Forces.
The Minister said the magazine would serve as an important resource for future military leaders, public servants, researchers and Ghanaians seeking to understand the standards of leadership and public service that defined Omane Boamah’s life.
He described the publication as more than a historical record, saying it would help preserve the memory of the late minister and his contributions to Ghana’s defence sector.
The Minister also used the occasion to call for a renewed commitment to the values that Omane Boamah upheld throughout his public service.
He cited integrity, humility, professionalism, accountability and service above self as key principles that should continue to guide public officials and institutions.
He said the late Omane Boamah’s greatest memorial should not be the cenotaph alone, but the collective determination of Ghanaians to build stronger institutions and place the national interest above personal considerations.
“His greatest memorial will not be this cenotaph alone, but our collective resolve to build stronger institutions, place the national interest above all else, and continue the work of building the Ghana he so faithfully served.”
The ceremony brought together government officials, members of the Ghana Armed Forces and other dignitaries to honour the late statesman and reflect on his contribution to Ghana’s public service and national security.
The special commemorative edition of the Defender magazine was subsequently declared officially launched in honour of Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and his enduring legacy.
CREDIT: MAVIS FANTEVI