Ghana has been thrown into mourning following the tragic deaths of two serving ministers and six others in a military helicopter crash in the Ashanti region on Wednesday.
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Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, were among the victims, according to a government spokesperson. The incident, which occurred en route to Obuasi for an anti-illegal mining event, was described by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah as a “national tragedy.”
The ill-fated Z9 helicopter had departed from Accra at 09:12 GMT carrying three crew members and five passengers before going off radar. Images circulating on social media appear to show the charred remains of the aircraft, but authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the crash.
Flags across the country have been ordered to fly at half-mast in honour of the deceased. President John Dramani Mahama, through his Chief of Staff, extended condolences to the families of the victims and commended the late officials for their dedication to national service.
Also among the deceased were Ghana’s Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister, Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, and Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The Ghana Armed Forces identified the fallen crew members as Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Defence Minister Boamah, who previously served as communications minister, was known for tackling rising jihadist threats along Ghana’s northern borders. His book, A Peaceful Man In An African Democracy, about former President John Atta Mills, was scheduled for release later this year.
Minister Muhammed had been a leading voice against illegal gold mining, known locally as Galamsey, which has caused severe environmental degradation. His efforts drew national and international attention, especially during last year’s presidential campaign.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves throughout the nation, with Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu stating that President Mahama was “down, down emotionally.”
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