The Ghanaian flag flew at half-mast on Friday, August 15, as the nation came together to honour six of the eight victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash — a tragedy that has left the country in deep mourning but also in renewed solidarity.
At the Black Star Square, an interfaith service filled with prayers, music, and moving tributes preceded the burial at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo. Government officials, the military high command, political leaders, and citizens from all walks of life stood side by side in a display of national unity, bidding farewell to the fallen.
President John Dramani Mahama, in a heartfelt address, announced the creation of an Educational Children’s Support Fund to secure the future of the victims’ children from primary education through university. He also posthumously promoted Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, recognising their service and sacrifice to the nation.
“These men and women gave their all for Ghana. Let us ensure their children never walk alone,” the President said, urging citizens to rally around the bereaved families.
The solemn rites included wreath-laying by the President, Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), with full military honours accompanied by the stirring sounds of the Air Force and Armed Forces bands.
While two of the victims — Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed — had been laid to rest on August 10, Friday’s ceremony was dedicated to six others: Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
As the final volleys of the military salute echoed through the air, the ceremony closed not only with grief but with a shared commitment to honour the legacy of the departed — through care for their families and a renewed dedication to the service of Ghana.
