Accra: An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been established to examine the cause of a tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of two ministers of state and six others in Adansi Akrofuom, located in the Ashanti Region. President John Dramani Mahama announced the formation of this board during a nationwide broadcast on Thursday night.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama assured the public that the Ghana Armed Forces are conducting a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Essential components such as the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered to aid the investigation. The government is actively engaged with the bereaved families, assisting with the identification of the victims and making arrangements for their final interment.
President Mahama further announced that a state funeral, involving multiple denominations, will be held on Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square in Accra to honor the eight victims. Additionally, Books of Condolence will be available for signing from Sunday, August 10, to Thursday, August 14, at various locations including the Ministry of Defence, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, and other significant institutions.
In his address, President Mahama emphasized the need for national unity and compassion during this period of mourning. He urged the nation to put aside differences and come together in support of the grieving families. The President called for an end to division and speculation, highlighting the importance of empathy and the enduring Ghanaian spirit.
President Mahama also mentioned an Evening of Reflections and Memorial to be held on Saturday, August 9, at the forecourt of the State House, in remembrance of the departed colleagues. The crash involved a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter that was enroute to Obuasi for the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme. The victims included two cabinet ministers, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, among others.
In light of this tragedy, the government has declared a three-day period of national mourning starting from August 7, 2025.
