President John Mahama Leads National Memorial for Victims of 2025 Military Helicopter Crash

President John Mahama and Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang led a solemn National Inter-Faith Memorial Service on August 6, 2026, to honor the eight victims of the military helicopter crash that occurred exactly one year ago. Held at the UPSA Auditorium in Madina, Accra, the service brought together government officials, religious leaders, and bereaved families to commemorate the lives of notable public servants, including the late Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, and the late Minister of Environment, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. The event served as a moment of national reflection on the sacrifices made by those in public service and the enduring grief of their families.

During the ceremony, President Mahama emphasized the government's commitment to the welfare and protection of public service personnel, pledging that their sacrifices would not be in vain. In a significant move to support the survivors, the President announced a state support package that includes the establishment of GH₵1 million trust funds for each child of the deceased victims. This gesture of national gratitude aims to ensure the long-term security and education of the children left behind by the tragic accident on August 6, 2025. The Ministry of Defence is also scheduled to unveil a permanent memorial cenotaph later today to provide a lasting site for remembrance.

The service was marked by poignant tributes from family members and colleagues. Naval Lieutenant Ewuradwoa Kumi-Kyeremeh, the widow of Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, spoke on behalf of the widows, describing the past year as a journey of profound pain but expressing hope through faith and community support. Similarly, Prof. Michael Ayamga, Deputy CEO of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recalled his final conversations with Dr. Murtala Mohammed, highlighting the late minister's dedication to tackling plastic pollution. Family representatives for Dr. Omane Boamah and Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala also shared their gratitude for the public's prayers, noting that while time passes, the void left by their loved ones remains deeply felt.

Religious leaders at the inter-faith gathering called for national unity and a renewed spirit of service to honor the legacy of the fallen heroes. Brigadier General Kumi-Woode urged Ghanaians to carry forward the victims' dedication to duty by serving the nation with integrity. As part of the week of commemoration, the government has organized a nationwide blood donation exercise set for August 8, 2026. This initiative is intended to turn a moment of national tragedy into a lifesaving contribution to the country's healthcare system, reflecting the spirit of sacrifice exemplified by the eight individuals lost in the 2025 crash.