Ghana is in mourning following a tragic military helicopter crash in the Ashanti region that claimed the lives of eight people, including two senior government ministers. The crash, described as a “national tragedy” by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, occurred on Wednesday morning as the group was en route to an anti-illegal mining event in Obuasi.
The deceased include Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, both prominent figures in President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. Also among the victims were Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Ghana’s Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister, and Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).
According to the Ghana Armed Forces, the Z9 military helicopter carrying five passengers and three crew members lost contact shortly after taking off from Accra at 09:12 local time. The charred remains of the aircraft were discovered later in the day, and all eight bodies have since been recovered and transported to the capital.
The crash has shaken the nation, with President Mahama suspending all official engagements and declaring a three-day national mourning period starting Thursday. Flags have been ordered to fly at half-mast across the country.
President Mahama extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, describing the deceased as “servicemen who died in service to the country.” Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu said the president was “down, down emotionally” following the news.
Boamah, a respected former communications and environment minister, had recently focused on strengthening border security amid rising jihadist threats from neighboring Burkina Faso. His upcoming book, A Peaceful Man In An African Democracy, a tribute to the late President John Atta Mills, was due for release later this year.
Muhammed had been a vocal advocate against illegal gold mining, locally known as Galamsey, which has caused widespread environmental destruction. His efforts to combat the practice intensified during last year’s heated election campaign.
The cause of the crash remains unknown, but the Ghana Armed Forces have launched an investigation.
As investigations continue, Ghanaians are left grappling with the sudden loss of national leaders whose contributions spanned security, environmental advocacy, and public service.
Written By Rodney Mbua
