Thanksgiving service held for helicopter crash victims
A thanksgiving service has been held in honour of two victims of the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight prominent government and military officials.
The solemn Mass took place on Sunday, 17 August, at Christ the King Parish in Accra, drawing grieving families, dignitaries and members of the public in a moving show of national solidarity.
Family members of the late Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala were called forward to receive blessings in honour of their loved ones, offering a moment of solace amid the country’s deep sorrow.
The crash occurred on 6 August 2025, when a Harbin Z-9EH military helicopter with tail number GHF 631, en route from Accra to Obuasi, went down in a forested area of the Adansi Akrofuom District in the Ashanti Region. All eight passengers aboard perished in the disaster.
The deceased were Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah; Environment Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Limuna Mohammed Muniru; NDC Vice-Chairman Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; pilot Peter Bafemi Anala, co-pilot Flying Officer Twum Ampadu, and flight engineer Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
A state funeral was held at Black Star Square on Friday, 15 August, where children and spouses of the deceased delivered emotional tributes that moved the nation.
In an address, President John Dramani Mahama announced the creation of a Children’s Support Fund to ensure the long-term welfare of the bereaved children.
The fund will provide full educational support from primary school through to tertiary or technical training. It will also offer comprehensive healthcare, including medical insurance and access to specialised treatment.
In addition, the fund will cover welfare assistance such as clothing, shelter and living expenses. Stanbic Bank Ghana launched the fund with a seed contribution of GHS500,000.
The President pledged an immediate government contribution and promised that a detailed operational framework would be published within 30 days. He further assured the public that the fund would be governed by transparency measures, including annual public reporting.
In a final tribute to the fallen military personnel, President Mahama announced posthumous promotions. Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala was elevated to the rank of Wing Commander.
Flying Officer Twum Ampadu was promoted to Flight Lieutenant. Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah was elevated to Flight Sergeant.
