Ghana is marking the first anniversary of the Adansi Akrofuom military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight government officials and military personnel during an anti-illegal mining mission, with memorial events taking place across the country.
The Ghana Air Force helicopter crashed on August 6, 2025, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region while transporting officials to Obuasi for an engagement related to the fight against illegal mining.
All eight people on board were killed in the crash.
The victims were Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah; Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna; NDC Vice Chairman Dr Samuel Sarpong; Deputy Director-General of NADMO Samuel Aboagye; Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala; Flying Officer Malin Twum-Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
To commemorate the anniversary, government has organised a week-long programme featuring a memorial lecture, an interfaith service, a nationwide blood donation exercise and the unveiling of a cenotaph in honour of the deceased.
President John Dramani Mahama has also presented support packages to the families of the victims as part of the commemoration activities.
The anniversary has prompted renewed reflection on the sacrifice of public officials and security personnel who lose their lives in the course of national service.
It has also reignited public debate over the circumstances surrounding the crash and the broader campaign against illegal mining, which was the purpose of the official mission on the day of the tragedy.
The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on government to provide updates on the helicopter crash investigation and the progress of efforts to combat illegal mining.
According to the party, accountability and measurable progress in addressing illegal mining would be an appropriate way to honour the memory of those who died while carrying out a national assignment.
The Adansi helicopter crash remains one of the most significant national tragedies in recent years, with the anniversary serving as a reminder of the risks associated with public service and the ongoing challenge of protecting Ghana’s natural resources.
