President Mahama Delivers Heartfelt Tribute to Helicopter Crash Victims

President John Dramani Mahama has delivered a solemn and emotionally resonant national address following the tragic Z-9 military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives on August 6. Speaking from Jubilee House, Mahama described the incident as “a deep personal loss” and a moment of profound national grief.

Among the deceased were prominent government officials and military personnel:

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Defence Minister

Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Environment Minister

Squadron Leader Peter Abaafeme Anala, Flying Officer Ampadu, and Sergeant Addo – Ghana Air Force

Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Samuel Sarpong, and Samuel Aboagye – Public servants and political figures

“These gallant men each served Ghana with distinction,” Mahama said. “That their final moments were spent in service is a testament to their unwavering commitment.”

The President confirmed that both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder—commonly known as the black box—have been recovered. A board of inquiry has been constituted by the Ghana Armed Forces to conduct a full and transparent investigation into the cause of the crash.

“All eight bodies have been retrieved, and the government is working closely with families on identification and final interment,” he added.

To honor the victims:

National Memorial: Saturday, August 9 at 5 p.m., Forecourt of the State House

Books of Condolence: Open from August 10–14 at key institutions including the Ministries of Defence and Environment, NADMO, and NDC headquarters

State Funeral: Friday, August 15 at Black Star Square, with full inter-denominational rites

Mahama urged Ghanaians to resist politicizing the tragedy and instead embrace empathy and solidarity. “This is not a time for division or speculation. It is a time for strength and for the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else has failed.”

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