Ghana comes to a standstill today as the nation gathers at Black Star Square, Accra, to honour eight distinguished citizens who perished in the August 6 Sikaman-Brofroyedru military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofrom District of the Ashanti Region.
The tragedy, which claimed the lives of top government officials and military personnel, has left the country in deep grief and renewed debate over the state of Ghana’s military aviation fleet.
President John Dramani Mahama will lead a cross-section of mourners, including government officials, the security services, traditional authorities, and bereaved families, in paying final respects. An interdenominational service will precede the burial of six of the victims — Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, former Obuasi East parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — at the Military Cemetery, Tse Addo.
Two others, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, were laid to rest on August 10 according to Islamic tradition.
Today’s ceremony will be held under tight security, with road closures in parts of Accra to ensure the smooth passage of the funeral procession. For many, the event is not only a final farewell but also a stark reminder of the need for urgent reforms and investment in Ghana’s defence infrastructure.
