President John Dramani Mahama has led the nation in marking the first anniversary of the military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight people, urging Ghanaians to ensure their sacrifice continues to inspire service, integrity and patriotism.
Speaking at the National Inter-Faith Memorial Service in Accra on Wednesday, the President described remembrance as both a duty and a measure of the nation’s character.
He said the memory of those who died should not be honoured only through prayers, but also through responsible leadership, compassion, selfless service and a steadfast commitment to protecting those who dedicate their lives to serving Ghana.
Offering his condolences to the bereaved families, President Mahama assured them that the country would continue to stand with them in their grief.
He said the legacy of what he described as the “Departed Eight” would continue to inspire future generations to put national service above personal interest and serve Ghana with dedication and integrity.
The memorial service brought together Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, senior government officials, the Ghana Armed Forces High Command, religious leaders, traditional authorities, members of the diplomatic corps, relatives of the deceased and other invited guests.
On August 6, 2025, Ghana was thrown into mourning after a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter crashed in the Ashanti Region, killing all eight people on board.
Those who died included Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, NDC Vice Chairman Dr Samuel Sarpong and former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye.
The three crew members were Pilot Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Co-pilot Flying Officer Manin Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
The tragedy remains one of Ghana’s deadliest military aviation disasters in recent years and continues to be remembered as a day of profound national loss.
By Martha Seyram Jackson
