President mourns eight killed in helicopter crash, sets 15 August state funeral

President John Dramani Mahama has led the nation in mourning the loss of eight Ghanaians who perished in a helicopter crash in Adansi Akrofuom on Thursday. The victims included five prominent public officials and three members of the Ghana Armed Forces.

In a sombre national address on Thursday night, President Mahama described the incident as “a deep personal loss” and paid tribute to the victims as “dedicated public servants, intellectuals, and individuals who relentlessly worked for a better Ghana.”

He said their final moments spent in service were a testament to their unwavering commitment to the nation.

The President assured the public that the Ghana Armed Forces has launched a full and transparent investigation into the cause of the crash.

According to him, an investigative board of inquiry has been constituted, and both the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been retrieved.

President Mahama announced that national mourning activities will include an Evening of Reflection and Memorial on Saturday, August 9, at the forecourt of the State House, with books of condolence opened at key ministries, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the NDC headquarters, and NADMO from August 10 to 14.

Also, an interdenominational state funeral will follow at Black Star Square on Friday, August 15.

Calling for unity, President Mahama urged Ghanaians to set aside political divisions in this moment of grief.

“This is not a time for speculation or point-scoring. Let our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost,” he said.

“Though they are gone from our sight, they remain forever in the spirit of the nation they so faithfully served,” the President added.