LocationsUNDP Ghana Holds Tree-Planting Ceremony in Honour of the Gallant Eight
August 22, 2025
From left: Prosper Douglas Bani, National Security Advisor; Dr. Peter Justice Derry, Chief Director, Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology; Niloy Banerjee, UNDP Resident Representative; Shaima Hussein, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative; and Saeed Abdul-Razak, Team Lead, Environment and Climate Cluster, UNDP Ghana, at the tree-planting ceremony in honour of the Gallant Eight.
Accra, Ghana – 22 August 2025 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ghana today held a solemn tree-planting ceremony to honour the memory of eight distinguished Ghanaians — Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Former Minister for Environment, Science and Technology; Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Former Minister for Defence; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress; Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of the National Disaster Management Organisation; Squadron Leader Peter Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo of the Ghana Air Force — who tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash on 6 August 2025.
The event, held at the UNDP Ghana premises, brought together government representatives, development partners, civil society, and the UN family to pay tribute to the lives and service of the gallant eight who dedicated themselves to Ghana’s development and public service.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Niloy Banerjee, UNDP Resident Representative, expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the departed and reflected on their legacy:
“Today, as we plant these trees, we remember lives cut short in service to the nation. These trees will grow as living memorials, symbolizing hope, resilience, and the enduring contributions of these heroes to Ghana’s progress,” said Mr. Banerjee.
The programme featured solidarity messages from colleagues and partners, including Dr. Peter Justice Derry, Chief Director of the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, and Prosper Douglas Bani, National Security Advisor. It also included a minute of silence in solemn remembrance and the sharing of personal memories through stories, photos, and videos.
Three trees were planted on the UNDP lawn, one each for Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the six other patriots, signifying growth, continuity, and environmental stewardship.
Trees planted in honour of the gallant eight.
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed was a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability and worked closely with UNDP on initiatives such as the flagship “One Child, One Tree” campaign launched during World Environment Day on 7 June 2025. The campaign inspired children across the country to plant and nurture trees, fostering a culture of conservation among future generations.
UNDP Ghana reaffirms its commitment to advancing environmental sustainability, good governance, and inclusive development in honour of the legacies left behind by the gallant eight.
The eight distinguished heroes who dedicated their lives to Ghana’s service and development, honoured through a solemn tree-planting ceremony at UNDP Ghana.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Emelia Ainooson
Communications and Partnerships Lead
Email: emelia.ainooson@undp.org | Tel: +233 50 132 3566
About UNDP Ghana: UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, UNDP help nations build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.
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