Dr. Edward Omane Boamah is remembered as a uniquely multifaceted leader a doctor who seamlessly integrated medical knowledge, digital innovation, environmental stewardship, and national security.
His reform-driven roles and policy initiatives left enduring marks in multiple facets of Ghana’s governance and public health landscape.
Former Minister for Defence, Republic of Ghana
Born: 1974
Died: 6 August 2025
Nationality: Ghanaian
Profession: Physician, Health Policy Specialist, Politician
Early Life and Education
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah was born in 1974 in Ghana. He attended Pope John Senior High School and Minor Seminary in Koforidua. Demonstrating early academic promise and leadership capabilities, he progressed to the University of Ghana Medical School (UGMS), where he trained as a medical doctor.
During his medical education, he completed an international elective at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. Later, he pursued postgraduate studies in health policy, obtaining a Master’s degree in Health Policy, Planning and Financing, jointly awarded by the London School of Economics (LSE) and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).
Professional and Medical Service
Dr. Omane Boamah’s early career was deeply rooted in health and humanitarian work. He served on the medical rescue team during the May 9, 2001 Accra Sports Stadium disaster, one of Ghana’s worst public tragedies. He also volunteered with the World Health Organization’s Expanded Programme on Immunization in the Asuogyaman District in 2004.
Beyond clinical duties, he was active in student advocacy and served as President of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) and Coordinating Secretary of the Federation of Ghana Medical Students Association (FGMSA).
Political Career
Deputy Minister for Environment, Science and Technology (2009–2012)
Dr. Boamah entered public service under President John Atta Mills as Deputy Minister for Environment, Science and Technology.
In this role, he led investigations into major environmental infractions, including the Kosmos Energy oil spill and cyanide pollution caused by Newmont. He also initiated a nationwide tree-planting campaign.
Deputy Minister for Youth and Sports (2012–2013)
In 2012, he transitioned to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, where he coordinated Ghana’s preparations for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Minister for Communications (2013–2017)
Under President John Dramani Mahama, Dr. Omane Boamah was appointed Minister for Communications. His tenure was marked by the implementation of Ghana’s 4G LTE technology rollout, the establishment of the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-GH), and the development of a Child Online Protection Framework. He also served as the official spokesperson for President Mahama from 2014 to 2017.
Minister for Defence (2025)
On January 30, 2025, President John Mahama appointed Dr. Omane Boamah as Ghana’s Minister for Defence.
He officially assumed office on February 5, 2025. Though his tenure was brief, he focused on military welfare reform, internal security strategy, and anti-illegal mining efforts in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment.
Death
On 6 August 2025, Dr. Omane Boamah died in the line of duty while traveling aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z‑9 military helicopter en route from Accra to Obuasi. The aircraft crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. Seven others, including Minister for Environment and Science Dr. Murtala Mohammed, also perished in the crash. Their mission involved visiting anti-illegal mining sites and environmental operations in the Ashanti Region.
Personal Life
Dr. Omane Boamah was known to be intensely private about his personal life. Public records do not detail information about his spouse or children. He was respected by peers for his humility, intellect, and dedication to national service.
Legacy
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah is remembered as a uniquely multifaceted figure a medical doctor, policy expert, environmental advocate, and digital innovator. His contributions to national health, technology, and defense policy continue to influence Ghana’s institutional development. His life of public service, intellectual rigor, and patriotism has earned him a lasting place in Ghana’s contemporary history.
