A devastating helicopter crash in Ghana’s Ashanti Region on August 6 claimed eight lives, including major government ministers. As the nation mourns, questions grow over security, leadership loss, and the mission ahead.
On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, a Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) Z-9 helicopter tragically crashed shortly after departing Accra en route to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region. The aircraft lost radar contact minutes after takeoff and was later found engulfed in flames in the Adansi-Akrofuom District. All eight people on board—five passengers and three crew—were killed.
Among the victims were high-ranking officials and military personnel:
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former Agriculture Minister and NDC Vice Chairman
Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate
GAF crew: Pilot Peter Bafemi Anala, Co-pilot Manin Twum‑Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah described the crash as a “national tragedy.” President John Mahama canceled all official engagements and ordered national flags flown at half-mast as the country entered a period of mourning.
The tragedy comes at a critical time. Dr. Boamah had assumed his role in January to address growing regional security threats from Islamist insurgents. The sudden loss of key officials poses serious challenges for national governance and security.
An investigation is underway, with authorities probing technical failure and weather conditions as potential causes. No survivors were found.
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