Mahama launches children’s Support fund for victims of August 6 helicopter crash

President John Dramani Mahama has announced the creation of a Children’s Support Fund to safeguard the education and welfare of the children of the eight victims who perished in the August 6 Ghana Armed Forces helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region.

The President revealed that Stanbic Bank has committed an initial seed capital of GHC500,000 to commence the fund, which will provide comprehensive support — from primary education through to university or technical training — for the children left behind. The fund will also cater for healthcare, medical insurance, specialised care where needed, welfare support, shelter, and other living expenses.

Speaking at the funeral service for six of the victims on Friday, 15 August, at Independence Square, President Mahama described the crash as “a national tragedy that has cast its shadow over the heart of Ghana,” noting that the loss was not only institutional but deeply personal.

“This is not only a moment of national tragedy but also personal heartbreak,” he said. “These were not just colleagues; they were brothers in arms, trusted advisors, and friends whose counsel and loyalty I valued beyond measure.”

The President pledged that the fund would be maintained through transparent annual public reporting and opened for contributions from citizens and international partners. He also confirmed that the government would make an immediate seed contribution and release a detailed operational framework within 30 days.

Two of the victims — Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed — were buried on 10 August.

 The remaining six — Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Samuel Aboagye, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice Chairman Dr Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — were laid to rest on 15 August.

In a heartfelt tribute, President Mahama hailed the victims as “bright lights in our national life” whose dedication to service was matched only by their humility and patriotism. He recounted their professional achievements, from bold reforms in the Armed Forces to environmental advocacy and national security work, as well as their personal warmth, integrity, and unwavering commitment to Ghana.

“Their final act was one of service, which is how they will be remembered,” he said. “They believed in the Ghana we are building — a nation of opportunity, justice, and unity.”

He urged Ghanaians to honour the fallen by fostering unity rather than division and confirmed that the government had ordered a full and transparent investigation into the cause of the crash.

“Though their voices have fallen silent, their legacy will endure,” President Mahama declared. “May Ghana — the nation for which they lived and died — remain forever worthy of their sacrifice.”