Ghana has been thrown into mourning following a tragic helicopter crash on Wednesday that claimed the lives of several top government officials, including the country’s Defence Minister, Edward Omane Boamah, and Environment Minister, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
According to a statement from the presidency, the military helicopter, which had three crew members and five passengers onboard, disappeared from radar shortly after taking off from Accra around 9:00 am local time. The aircraft was en route to Obuasi for a high-level event focused on illegal mining an issue that has deeply affected Ghana’s environment and cocoa industry.
Local broadcaster Joy News released footage from the crash site, showing burnt wreckage scattered across a densely forested area. All eight individuals on the flight tragically lost their lives.
Among the deceased were also Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Ghana’s Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister, and Samuel Sarpong, vice chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Minister Boamah, a medical doctor and experienced statesman, had only recently been appointed Defence Minister following President John Mahama’s inauguration in January. His prior roles included serving as Communications Minister and Deputy Minister for Environment. His recent leadership came at a time when Ghana faced mounting security concerns due to instability in neighbouring Burkina Faso.
Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, the Environment, Science, and Technology Minister, had been at the forefront of efforts to tackle illegal gold mining, known locally as “galamsey.” This unregulated activity has not only degraded farmlands but also contaminated water sources, raising national concern.
President Mahama’s Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, conveyed the government’s deep condolences, stating:
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families of our fallen comrades and the brave servicemen who died in service to our nation.”
In response to the tragedy, all national flags are to be flown at half-mast, and President Mahama has suspended his official duties for the day. The President is said to be “deeply shaken,” according to Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, who addressed reporters following the devastating news.
This incident marks a somber chapter in Ghana’s recent history as the nation reflects on the lives and service of its fallen leaders, individuals who were deeply engaged in shaping the future of the country.
