Ghana seeks U.S. help to probe helicopter crash
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
The government has formally sought assistance from U.S. forensic experts to aid investigations into the 6 August military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including two cabinet ministers.
The move follows a directive from President John Dramani Mahama, who has pledged to uncover the exact cause of the disaster. The incident, involving a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter, shocked the nation due to the high-profile nature of the victims.
The aircraft was on a mission to launch a community mining scheme aimed at combating illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
The tragedy not only claimed the lives of key officials but also risked stalling a flagship government initiative.
Speaking to the press after signing a book of condolences, Foreign Affairs Minister and Armed Forces Council member Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed the U.S. invitation.
He said this at a mini-cabinet meeting on 14 August 2025, which was convened to deliberate on the matter.
“On the instruction of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, we have formally requested the Americans to assist. They have considerable expertise in these matters, and we have been assured they are willing to help,” said Mr Ablakwa.
He stressed the need for an independent probe, despite the option for the helicopter’s Chinese manufacturers to decode the black box and present a report.
“We believe it is important to bring in independent experts to ensure the outcome of the investigations is credible and accepted by all. This process must meet the highest international standards. The Americans have responded, and we expect their experts soon,” Mr Ablakwa stated. At the meeting, President Mahama and his team also resolved to honour the victims by completing their mission, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the anti-galamsey fight led by the late Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
