Pope Leo XIV Offers Condolences and Prayers for Ghana Following Tragic Helicopter Crash
Pope Leo XIV has extended his heartfelt condolences to Ghana over the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including senior government officials and military personnel, on August 6, 2025.
In a telegram signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, and addressed to Bishop Matthew K. Gyamfi of the Sunyani Diocese and President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, the Holy Father expressed profound sorrow for the loss.
The message, released by the Holy See Press Office on Thursday, August 7, reads, “His Holiness Pope Leo XIV sends his condolences upon the deaths of the ministers, government officials, and all who perished in the military helicopter crash.” The Pope entrusted the souls of the deceased to God’s mercy and offered prayers for the grieving families and the nation, assuring Ghana of his spiritual support during this challenging time.
The crash occurred in a densely forested area of Adansi Akrofuom District, Ashanti Region, when a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter en route to Obuasi for an anti-illegal mining mission went off radar and crashed, killing all onboard. The victims included Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, and crew members Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference echoed the Pope’s sentiments, issuing a statement mourning the loss of “brilliant minds” and calling for nationwide prayers. “Their sudden and untimely passing is a great loss for the nation,” the bishops noted, describing the victims as committed public servants and gallant officers.
President John Mahama has declared a three-day national mourning period, effective from August 7 to August 9, 2025, as investigations into the crash’s cause continue. The global outpouring of support, including the Vatican’s message, underscores the international significance of this national tragedy
