In the wake of the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians, the National Democratic Congress government h
In the wake of the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians, the National Democratic Congress government has officially announced a solemn three-day national mourning programme to honour the victims and reflect on their legacies.
The mourning period, spanning from Thursday, August 7 to Saturday, August 9, 2025, will provide Ghanaians across the country with the opportunity to grieve together and pay their final respects to the departed souls.
Day One: Laying of Flowers and Lighting of Candles
The commemoration began on Thursday afternoon with a public laying of flowers and lighting of candles at the Ceremonial Garden in front of the Jubilee House, the seat of government in Accra.
The symbolic act of remembrance was opened to the general public, family members, and friends of the deceased.
Presidency officials encouraged all citizens to participate in the event, which will remain open until Friday, August 8, allowing for continuous expressions of grief and condolences.
Day Three: Evening of Reflections and Memorials
The mourning period will climax on Saturday, August 9, with an “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” to be held at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra.
Beginning at 5:00 PM, the event will bring together families, dignitaries, and ordinary Ghanaians to reflect on the contributions of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
In a statement issued by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications and Spokesperson to the President, the government called on all citizens to observe the period of mourning with “dignity and respect,” while noting that additional details on the State Funeral will be announced through official channels.
“These three days offer our nation a vital opportunity to collectively mourn and reflect on the profound loss we have experienced,” the statement read.
Bodies Transferred to 37 Military Hospital
On the night of the tragic incident — Wednesday, August 6, 2025 — the bodies of the eight victims were airlifted to Accra aboard a Ghana Air Force CASA aircraft.
The remains were received by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, along with senior military officers and members of the clergy, during a solemn arrival ceremony at the Air Force Base.
The remains have since been deposited at the 37 Military Hospital Morgue, pending autopsies, investigations, and state burial arrangements.
The Victims
The crash claimed the lives of several high-profile government officials and military personnel:
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment and MP for Tamale Central
Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
Samuel Sarpong, NDC National Vice Chairman
Samuel Aboagye, former NDC parliamentary candidate
Sqn. Ldr. Peter Bafemi Anala, pilot
Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu, co-pilot
Sgt. Ernest Addo Mensah, flight engineer
The Z-9 military helicopter, which had taken off from Accra en route to Obuasi, crashed in the Dampia Forest Range near Sikaman, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.
The Military search teams located the wreckage after the aircraft lost communication with control towers.
Investigation Underway
While the nation grieves, a full-scale investigation into the cause of the crash has begun. Aviation and military experts are currently on-site, examining flight data, weather conditions, and technical components of the helicopter.
The Ministry of Defence has assured the public that findings from the investigation will be made available as soon as possible.
National Unity in Grief
The tragedy has drawn condolences from across the political divide, civil society, religious leaders, and the international community. Former President Nana Akufo-Addo, Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and various diplomatic missions have all expressed solidarity with the bereaved families.
Schools, religious institutions, and civic organisations have been encouraged to hold special prayer sessions throughout the mourning period, in memory of the fallen patriots.
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