The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has paid an emotional tribute to the late Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, describing him as an “irreplaceable loss” to both the service and the nation. The moving words were delivered during a solemn night of memories and reflections held on Saturday, August 9, in honour of the August 6 helicopter crash victims.
Reading a tribute on behalf of the GAF, Air Commodore Mathias Awuah conveyed a message from the Chief Director of the Ministry of Defence, Suweibah Adam, praising Squadron Leader Anala for his exceptional professionalism and service.
“His sudden departure is an irreplaceable loss to the service and the Ghana Armed Forces as a whole. Commissioned into the Operations Branch on October 17, 2014, Squadron Leader Anala exercised exceptional skill, discipline, and dedication,” the statement read.
The tribute further highlighted that his accomplishments were “underpinned by rigorous training both locally and abroad,” adding, “Your duty is done, but your legacy endures forever.”
The tragic crash also claimed the lives of the Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
Other victims included Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the NDC; and the remaining crew members – Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
According to preliminary accounts, the high-ranking officials were travelling aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter bound for Obuasi when the aircraft went off radar. The tragedy has plunged the nation into mourning, with condolences flowing from political leaders, military officers, and citizens alike.
Flags across Ghana continue to fly at half-mast as the country reflects on the service, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of the victims.
