Ghanaians heard about one of the most devastating disasters to have plagued the country in recent years. The entire nation is in mourning following a catastrophic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight people, including two sitting government ministers and senior political figures, in what is being described as one of the most tragic days in recent Ghanaian history.
The accident occurred early Wednesday morning when a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 military helicopter, en route from Accra to the Ashanti Region, lost radar contact and crashed near Adansi Sikaman, bursting into flames upon impact. All eight occupants were confirmed dead at the scene.
Among the deceased were Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence and former Minister of Communications, who had returned to frontline government leadership earlier this year, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation and Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chair of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Ashanti Regional Minister. The rest were Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate and regional organiser, three Ghana Air Force personnel – the pilot, co-pilot, and a flight sergeant.
The group was reportedly on an official visit linked to security coordination and environmental impact assessments in the forest belt of the Ashanti Region.
In a televised address, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, on behalf of the President, John Mahama, described the incident as “a crushing loss for the country and a moment of immense sorrow for the families involved and for the entire nation.”
“These were not just public servants; they were patriots. Men of conviction, leadership, and service,” the President said. “I have ordered all national flags to fly at half-mast for the next seven days in their honour.”
The government has launched an immediate investigation into the crash, with assistance from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and international partners.
This tragedy comes at a crucial time for Ghana’s domestic and regional affairs. Dr. Omane Boamah had been instrumental in recent defence sector reforms, while Dr. Murtala Muhammed was spearheading Ghana’s climate transition strategy ahead of COP29.
Political analysts note that the simultaneous loss of two high-profile ministers, along with key aides, presents both a leadership vacuum and an emotional blow to the governing establishment.
Across Ghana, the news has triggered widespread grief. In Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Bolgatanga, vigils and prayer services have begun, as civil society groups, faith leaders, and political stakeholders pour in tributes.
The Christian Council of Ghana, the Office of the Chief Imam, and traditional authorities have all issued statements of condolence.
This tragic event underscores the inherent risks associated with air travel, particularly in challenging weather conditions. As investigations continue, the nation mourns the loss of eight lives, including two dedicated public servants who served their country with distinction.
The government has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of these key officials and has pledged a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports suggest that adverse weather conditions may have played a role, but a full inquiry is underway to determine the exact circumstances. has also assured the public of a transparent investigation into the causes of the crash, as well as support for the bereaved families.
The crash has sent shockwaves through Ghanaian society, with tributes pouring in from across the nation. Political leaders, civil society organisations, and citizens have expressed their condolences and called for swift action to ensure the safety of air travel in the country.
There have been very few major aircraft incidents in recent times, depicting Ghana’s enviable record in the military aviation space. In March 2024, there was an emergency landing on a GHF helicopter carrying 21 people (Ghana Gas staff and crew) that crash-landed near Bonsukrom. There were no fatalities, but exposed gaps in flight risk planning. In June 2005, 10 military personnel died during a routine flight on an MI-17 crash over the Volta Region. The investigation cited mechanical failure and poor visibility.
Ghana’s Air Force has a modest but historically respected record in West Africa, balancing national defence, peacekeeping support, and humanitarian services. While its aircraft inventory is limited compared to larger militaries, the Ghana Air Force (GHF) has played a crucial role in regional operations and internal national security.
Here’s a concise overview of Ghana’s record in Air Force operations and aircraft management:
Ghana was one of the earliest African countries to establish a structured air force post-independence. The GHF was founded on July 24, 1959 under President Kwame Nkrumah with its Headquarters at the Burma Camp in Accra. It has lived up to its motto, “Service with Integrity”. Early aircraft were sourced from Britain, India, Canada, and the Soviet Union.
On these sorrowful moments in the nation’s history, Ghana bows its head and folds its arms in grief. Eight sons of the land patriots, public servants, guardians, were taken from us in the skies above Adansi Sikaman. They did not fall in combat, but they fell in service, in duty, and devotion to Ghana.
Gone Too Soon, yet never forgotten. Their mission was noble. Their service was selfless.
Their loss is heartbreaking. However, their memory will remain in the pages of Ghana’s history. “Greater love hath no man than this: that he lay down his life for his friends.” — John 15:13. They sacrificed their lives for a cause greater than themselves. For Ghana. For peace. For duty.
Let their memory be a mirror for all who lead a reminder that leadership is service and that true service demands sacrifice.
To their families, we offer not just condolences but eternal gratitude. Ghana mourns with you. Ghana stands with you. May their sacrifice birth a renewed sense of unity, safety, and purpose. “When heroes fall, the nation must rise.”
Today, we do not rise in joy, we rise in remembrance.
BY NANA SIFA TWUM
(PHD.)