‘We’ll Stand With You’ — President Mahama Tells Families of August 6 Crash Victims

President John Dramani Mahama has reassured the families of the eight people who died in last year’s helicopter crash that they are not alone, and that government and Ghanaians continue to mourn with them.

Speaking at a national inter-faith memorial service in Accra on Thursday, August 6, the President marked one year since the Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter went down in Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region while on official duty.

He described the victims as dedicated public servants who lost their lives in service to Ghana, and said their sacrifice will not be forgotten.

Addressing the bereaved families directly, President Mahama said he understood that time had not healed the pain.

“Let me once again convey the government and people of Ghana’s deepest condolences,” he said. “No speech can take away your pain. No anniversary can fill the empty seat at your table, and no ceremony can bring back the voices you miss.

“You have carried your grief with courage and dignity. You’ve reminded all of us that love doesn’t end with death — it lives on in memory, in faith, and in how we choose to live.

Please know that the nation still grieves with you. Your loved ones did not die alone. They belong to all of Ghana, and we will keep remembering them.”

The August 6, 2025 crash killed Defence Minister Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah; Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed; former Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Samuel Sarpong; former NDC parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; and three military personnel — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The helicopter was traveling from Accra to the Ashanti Region when it crashed.