FULL TEXT: President Mahama’s National Address Following GAF Z9 Helicopter Tragedy
Good evening, my countrymen and women,
It is with a profoundly heavy heart that I address you tonight.
Yesterday, a tragic helicopter crash in Adansi Akrofuom claimed the lives of eight cherished members of our Ghanaian family. Among the victims were five high-ranking public servants and three gallant members of the Ghana Armed Forces.
The deceased include:
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, Member of Parliament for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress
Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director-General of NADMO
Squadron Leader Peter Anala, Ghana Air Force
Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu, Ghana Air Force
Sergeant Ernest Addo, Ghana Air Force
This tragedy is not only a national loss; it is a deeply personal one for me. I shared close relationships with many of these distinguished individuals. Their absence leaves an unfillable void in our national life and in the hearts of all who knew them.
On behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, I extend my deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones. Know that our entire nation mourns with you. We share your pain. Your loss is our loss.
These eight individuals dedicated their lives to the service of Ghana. That their final moments were spent in pursuit of duty is a testament to their selflessness and unwavering patriotism. Their sacrifice must never be forgotten.
This is a moment of shared heartbreak—one that calls for national reflection. Let us pause to appreciate the preciousness of life, the burden of public duty, and the bravery of those who serve Ghana with distinction.
To the families of:
Squadron Leader Anala,
Flying Officer Ampadu, and
Sergeant Addo,
know that your loved ones embodied the very best of the Ghana Armed Forces.
To those mourning:
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, a humble but effective public servant,
Samuel Sarpong, a wise statesman,
Mr. Samuel Aboagye, a promising leader,
Dr. Omane Boamah, a brilliant strategist and committed patriot, and
Alhaji Dr. Murtala Mohammed, a passionate advocate for the environment—
we will honour their legacy with action and remembrance.
Naturally, questions about the cause of this tragedy have emerged. I assure the families, the Armed Forces, and the Ghanaian people that a full and transparent investigation is already underway.
An Investigative Board of Inquiry has been constituted to examine the circumstances of the crash. Both the flight data and cockpit voice recorders have been recovered. All eight bodies have been retrieved, and the government is coordinating closely with the families on identification and funeral arrangements.
In this moment of mourning, let us come together—not only as a nation but as a family. Let our shared sorrow strengthen our unity. Let us avoid political point-scoring, speculation, or division. This is a time for compassion, resilience, and national solidarity.
To the Ghana Armed Forces, the affected Ministries, NADMO, and the National Democratic Congress—we grieve with you. We salute the sacrifice of your fallen colleagues. May their legacies inspire those who follow in their footsteps.
As a nation, we will honour them.
On Saturday, 9th August at 5:00 PM, we will gather at the Forecourt of the State House for an Evening of Reflection and Memorial.
Books of Condolence will be opened from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August at the following locations:
Ministry of Defence
Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters
National Democratic Congress Headquarters
NADMO Head Office
On Friday, 15th August, an inter-denominational state funeral will be held at the Black Star Square to lay these national heroes to rest.
My brothers and sisters, may God bless their souls and grant comfort to all who mourn.
May God bless Ghana.
