The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has formally presented posthumous ranks, insignia, and financial support to the families of three military personnel who
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has formally presented posthumous ranks, insignia, and financial support to the families of three military personnel who lost their lives in the tragic Adansi helicopter crash earlier this month.
The solemn ceremony, led by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, took place at the Air Force Headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
The gesture followed the decision of President John Dramani Mahama, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to honour the servicemen who perished in the crash.
Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala was promoted posthumously to Wing Commander, Flying Officer Manae Twum-Ampadu to Flight Lieutenant, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah to Flight Sergeant.
The tragedy
On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, Ghana was struck by one of the deadliest military aviation accidents in recent years when a helicopter carrying senior government officials and military crew crashed in the Adansi Akrofoum District of the Ashanti Region.
All eight individuals on board, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Murtala Mohammed, and three Air Force crew members, died instantly.
The incident plunged the nation into mourning, with tributes pouring in from government, security services, and civilians.
A state funeral held on August 15 in Accra brought together President Mahama, senior officials, traditional leaders, and grieving families, during which the President announced a Children’s Support Fund to safeguard the welfare of the deceased officers’ dependents.
Honouring the fallen heroes
At the insignia presentation ceremony, Lt. Gen. Agyapong expressed the Armed Forces’ deep condolences to the bereaved families, describing the gesture as “a mark of honour and respect to comrades who gave their lives in service to the nation.”
He noted that government had prepared a comprehensive package for all eight victims, which would be unveiled in due course.
The CDS also suggested the establishment of a dedicated child care fund within the military to ensure that dependents of personnel who die in the line of duty receive long-term support.
The Chief of Staff Officer at the Air Force Headquarters, Air Commodore Mathias Awuah, remarked that promotions represent a milestone in every officer’s career.
“Though our colleagues are not here to witness it, the honour conferred on them reflects the value placed on their service,” he said.
Air Vice Marshal Eric Agyen-Frimpong, the Chief of Air Staff, explained that such promotions are usually celebrated at the Officers’ Mess.
However, given the circumstances, it was fitting to bring the families together and hand over the insignia directly.
He assured the families that all entitlements tied to the new ranks would be duly honoured.
Support for bereaved families
In addition to the ranks and insignia, the families were presented with a sum of GHS315,000, raised through donations from institutions, corporate organisations, and individuals.
Meanwhile, the Presidency has confirmed that the Children’s Support Fund established after the state funeral has already accrued GHS 2.3 million.
Senior Presidential Advisor, Dr. Valerie Sawyerr, revealed that the Fund—seeded with a GHS 500,000 donation from Stanbic Bank—has continued to attract contributions from companies including GB Foods Ghana, Quantum Terminals PLC, Sunda FM Manufacturing, and Procus GH Limited.
The Fund, according to President Mahama, is designed to ensure that the children of the deceased receive adequate support for their education, welfare, and long-term well-being.
Expressing gratitude
Speaking on behalf of the three bereaved families, Reverend MacDouglas Ampadu conveyed appreciation to the CDS, the Armed Forces, and the government for their sustained presence and support during their period of grief.
“This honour assures us that our loved ones did not die in vain,” he said. “The Armed Forces and the nation have shown us that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.”
The Adansi helicopter crash remains a painful reminder of the risks borne by military and government officials in service to the state.
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