Ghana Loses Two Ministers in Fatal Military Helicopter Crash

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Eight people, including Ghana’s Defence and Environment Ministers, died in a military helicopter crash on 6 August 2025 near Adansi-Akrofuom. The officials were en route to a government programme when the aircraft went off radar. President Akufo-Addo ordered flags at half-mast as investigations begin.

Ghana is plunged into deep mourning following the tragic loss of two high-ranking government ministers and six others in a military helicopter crash that occurred on the morning of Wednesday, 6 August 2025. The crash has sent shockwaves across the country and sparked an outpouring of grief as the nation grapples with the unexpected deaths of key national figures.

Among the deceased are Dr Edward Omane Boamah, the Minister for Defence, and Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation. Their deaths represent a significant loss to the government and the nation at large, as both men were considered influential voices in Ghana’s political and development landscape.

The sorrowful news was officially confirmed by the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, during a brief press conference at the Jubilee House. He provided preliminary details of the incident and pledged government support to the affected families.

The other victims have been identified as Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, a former Minister for Food and Agriculture and Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Mr Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate; and three Ghana Armed Forces crew members who were manning the aircraft. Their names have not yet been officially disclosed.

The incident occurred near Adansi-Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region. The delegation was en route to the launch of the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme, a major government initiative aimed at reforming the small-scale mining sector and equipping local communities with alternative skills. The Z-9 helicopter they were travelling in reportedly lost radar contact shortly after taking off from Accra.

Emergency responders were immediately deployed to the scene. Upon arrival, they discovered the wreckage engulfed in flames, making recovery operations extremely difficult. Photographs and videos from the scene show the charred remains of the aircraft, confirming the severity of the crash. Authorities are yet to release the full list of the deceased or provide details about any possible survivors or injuries.

During the press briefing, Mr Debrah conveyed heartfelt condolences from President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the government, stating that national flags would be flown at half-mast for a week to honour the fallen.

“The President and government extend our condolences and sympathies to the families of our comrades and the servicemen who died in service to the country,” he said solemnly.

The government has launched a full-scale investigation into the cause of the crash. Aviation authorities, military experts, and forensic teams are expected to conduct thorough inquiries to determine what went wrong and to prevent future occurrences.

As the nation mourns, tributes continue to pour in from political leaders, civil society groups, international partners, and ordinary citizens, all remembering the dedication, patriotism, and service of the departed individuals.