Accra: The United Nations in Ghana has joined the nation in mourning following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of some high-ranking government officials and military personnel. Mr. Zia Choudhury, the UN Resident Coordinator in Ghana, in a message issued in Accra, expressed profound sorrow over the incident, which he described as not just a national tragedy but also a painful loss felt deeply across the international community.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Choudhury stated, 'It is with profound sorrow that we receive the tragic news of the fatal crash involving the Ghana Airforce Z9 helicopter, claiming the lives of distinguished Government of Ghana officials.' The statement continued, 'The United Nations family in Ghana mourns with the nation in this moment of deep grief. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and to the Government and people of Ghana, as we together face this painful loss.'
The UN Coordinator specifically mentioned Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence, and Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, both of whom perished in the crash. 'This tragedy is not only a national wound but also a loss felt across the international community,' Mr. Choudhury stated. 'We stand united at this time of mourning. We honour the memory of those who have passed, with hope for their lasting peace.'
The fatal crash occurred on the morning of Tuesday, August 6, around the Adansi area in Ghana's Ashanti Region, when a Ghana Airforce Z9 helicopter went down during an official assignment. In addition to Dr. Boamah and Dr. Muhammed, the crash claimed the lives of Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, and Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Ashanti Regional Minister.
Also on board were Mr. Samuel Aboagye, a former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah. All passengers perished in the crash.
Mr. Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff at the Presidency, confirmed the incident during a press briefing at the Flagstaff House in Accra. 'I have the unpleasant duty, sadly, to announce a national tragedy involving the crash of a military helicopter this morning around the Adansi area in Ashanti region,' he announced, his voice heavy with emotion.
President John Dramani Mahama, he said, has extended deep condolences to the families of the deceased, describing the victims as comrades and patriots who died in service to their country. 'All flags are to fly at half-mast until further notice,' Mr. Debrah added, underscoring the gravity of the national loss.
The UN said it would continue to stand with Ghana through this period of mourning and recovery, honouring the legacies of the fallen statesmen and service members.
