Ghana is in mourning following the crash of a military helicopter that killed all eight people on board, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and several senior government and military officials.
The Z-9 helicopter went down Wednesday morning while en route to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region. According to military sources, the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control shortly after departing Accra at 9:12 a.m.
President John Mahama has declared the incident a national tragedy, ordering flags to be flown at half-mast across the country. “This is a dark day for our nation,” the President said in a brief statement. “We have lost dedicated public servants who were committed to the service of Ghana.”
Among the victims were:
1. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence
2. Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment
3. Alhaji Muniru Mohammed – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
4. Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice Chairman, National Democratic Congress (NDC)
5. Mr. Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate
6. Squadron Leader Peter Anala – Pilot
7. Flying Officer Twum Ampadu – Co-pilot
8. Sergeant Ernest Addo – Flight Engineer
The helicopter, one of several Harbin Z-9 models used by the Ghana Armed Forces, was reportedly on an official assignment when the crash occurred. The exact location of the crash site near Obuasi has not been disclosed, but recovery operations were immediately launched following the aircraft’s disappearance from radar.
The Ghana Armed Forces have since grounded all Z-9 helicopters pending the outcome of a formal investigation. Aviation experts and military accident investigators are being mobilised to determine the cause of the crash.
This incident is likely to raise questions about the reliability and maintenance of the military’s aircraft fleet. The Z-9, a Chinese-built light utility helicopter, has been in service with the Ghana Air Force for several years, but concerns over parts availability and servicing have been raised in the past.
Tributes are pouring in from across the political spectrum and the international community. Many are remembering the late officials for their contributions to public service and national development.
Dr. Boamah, in particular, was a familiar face in Ghanaian politics, having previously served as Minister for Communications. His role as Defence Minister was marked by efforts to modernise the armed forces and strengthen regional security partnerships.
Details regarding state funerals and national memorial services are expected in the coming days.
