Ghana is in mourning following the tragic crash of a Z-9 military helicopter in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, which claimed the lives of eight prominent figures, including senior government officials and military officers.
Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, speaking at a solemn flower-laying ceremony on Friday, August 8, described the incident as a “national tragedy” and a “very painful loss.”
“This morning I visited three of the deceased’s families, and I will continue that exercise tomorrow, Saturday, August 9. This is personal to all Ghanaians,” Dr. Bawumia said, adding that the loss transcends politics and should unite the nation in grief.
He extended condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the bereaved families, and the Ghana Armed Forces, noting, “Ghana has lost a tremendous amount from this tragedy. It is our national duty to fully participate in the mourning.”
The ceremony marks the start of a series of national observances ahead of a state burial scheduled for August 15, 2025. President Mahama has directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the country as tributes continue to pour in from home and abroad.
Ghanaians are being urged to honour the service and legacy of the fallen, who dedicated their lives to the nation.