President John Dramani Mahama today led a National Inter-Faith Memorial Service to honor the eight citizens and military personnel who lost their lives in the August 6, 2025 Ghana Air Force helicopter crash.
Addressing a congregation of state officials, military leadership, religious leaders, and bereaved families, President Mahama urged the nation never to forget the ultimate sacrifice of the victims and called for urgent measures to safeguard public servants operating in high-risk environments.
"Protecting Those Who Serve"
National Solidarity and High-Level Attendance
Reflecting on the tragedy, President Mahama described the morning of August 6, 2025, as a moment when Ghanaians woke up to news "none of us would have wished to hear," triggering profound grief, disbelief, and unanswered questions across the country.
The President emphasized that while the victims brought diverse talents and backgrounds to state service, they shared a unified dedication to national duty.
"They boarded that helicopter to carry out national duty. None imagined it would be their final journey," President Mahama stated.
He highlighted the often-unnoticed hazards faced daily by public servants, noting that the most fitting tribute to the deceased is ensuring greater safety and welfare for those who continue to serve the country:
Stronger Safety Standards: Upgrading operational protocols and safety checks across state transport networks.
Welfare Investment: Expanding support systems and equipment for military and civil service personnel operating under demanding conditions.
Enduring Remembrance: Assuring grieving families that their lost loved ones remain forever in the nation's collective memory.
The solemn ceremony brought together leadership across the government and security apparatus.
Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, who chairs the Armed Forces Council, joined members of the Council of State, Ministers of State, and senior commanders from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and allied security agencies.
Reiterating the government's commitment to the bereaved families, President Mahama acknowledged that while no ceremonial service can eliminate the pain of their loss, the state will stand alongside them to honor the legacy of the fallen heroes.
