National Leaders Honor Helicopter Crash Victims with Solemn Ceremony at Ceremonial Garden
President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, and several senior government officials gathered at the Ceremonial Garden in front of the presidency on Thursday afternoon to pay tribute to the eight individuals killed in the recent Ghana Air Force Z9 helicopter crash.
The somber event, marked by the laying of flowers and the lighting of candles, took place as the nation observes a three-day period of national mourning.
The ceremony honored the memory of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former Parliamentary Candidate Samuel Aboagye, and crew members Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampedu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, who perished in the crash on August 6, 2025, in Adansi Akrofuom, Ashanti Region.
With Ghanaian flags flying at half-mast in the background, the leaders stood in silent reflection, placing vibrant floral arrangements and lighting candles to symbolize hope and remembrance. The crash, which occurred while the helicopter was en route to Obuasi for an official event, has left the nation in mourning, prompting President Mahama to suspend all scheduled activities and declare the mourning period from August 7 to August 9, 2025.
The emotional gathering underscored the government’s commitment to honoring the fallen public servants and military personnel, with officials visibly moved as they paid their respects. As investigations into the crash’s cause continue, the ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those lost in the tragedy.
