Government officials, diplomatic corps and Ghanaians has organised a state funeral for six of the eight victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash, with President John Dramani Mahama conferring posthumous promotions and announcing lasting support for their families.
The interfaith service at Black Star Square was marked by tears, prayers, and tributes, as relatives, colleagues, and state officials gathered to mourn the fallen. Coffins draped in the national flag were carried with military precision to the sounds of the Ghana Armed Forces band, before burial with full honours at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo.
Among those laid to rest were Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Dr Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah. Two other victims—Environment Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed—had been buried earlier on August 10.
In his address, President Mahama announced the establishment of an Educational Children’s Support Fund, to cover schooling for the victims’ children from primary to tertiary level. He also conferred posthumous promotions on the three Ghana Air Force officers, describing the gesture as “the highest mark of respect for duty performed, even unto death.”
Under the new ranks, Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala was elevated to Wing Commander, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu to Flight Lieutenant, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah to Flight Sergeant. The Chief of Defence Staff will formally present the insignias to the bereaved families, ensuring they receive the full benefits attached to the new positions.
President Mahama urged the nation to draw strength from the sacrifice of the fallen, declaring: “You will always be in our hearts. You will always be remembered, and we will always revere your memory.”
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