Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, affectionately known as Papa Twum or Paa Tee, was born on January 7, 1995, in Accra to Rev. MacDouglas Emmanuel Ampadu of Aduama and Mrs. Patience Adjeley Ampadu Ablorh of Teshie. Born into royal heritage from the Etena clan of Abene, he carried the name of his paternal grandfather, Isaac Kwadjo Mensah Twum, with pride and honour.
Raised in Aburi, where his mother served at the Presbyterian Women’s College of Education, Manaen grew up as the elder of two children, embodying both responsibility and warmth. His educational journey began at Chrisland International School, Aburi, before continuing at Deks Preparatory International, Tema; DeBright International; Feberck International, Nungua; and finally returning to Deks International to complete Junior High School. At Presbyterian Secondary Technical (PST), Aburi, he discovered a passion for Geography—a subject that would shape his academic path.
He pursued higher education at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), earning a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Rural Development (Second Class Upper Division) in 2017. During his studies, he interned with the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and later completed his national service there. In 2020, driven by a childhood dream, he entered the Ghana Military Academy to train as a pilot—turning ambition into reality.
Manaen’s life was anchored in faith, family, and service. Baptised in 2002 under his father’s ministry, he was a devout Fundamental Baptist and a committed member of Set Time Baptist Church. He served faithfully as his father’s armour bearer during evangelism missions and as President of the Fundamental Baptist Students Fellowship (KNUST). His compassion was evident in his support for Zion Helping Hand, aiding children in rural communities, and his involvement with Jesus’ Kitchen, feeding the homeless.
On April 27, 2024, he married Naval Lieutenant Awura Adjao Kumi-Kyere, embracing marriage with the same love, respect, and devotion that defined all his relationships.
Beyond his professional and spiritual commitments, Manaen was known for humility, diligence, and a zest for life. He loved football, reading, computer games, and exploring new places. Friends and colleagues remember his generosity, encouraging spirit, and unwavering moral compass.
While he achieved his dream of flying for the Ghana Air Force, his true mission was far greater—living a life of integrity, faith, and service to others. His passing is a profound loss to his family, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the nation. Yet, we hold fast to the promise in 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17: “The Lord Himself will descend with a shout… and the dead in Christ shall rise first.”
Rest well, Papa Twum.
Your race is run, but your light will shine forever in our hearts.
