Ghana is in mourning following the deaths of Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
Six others, including senior government officials and military personnel, also perished in what the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, in a press conference, described as a “national tragedy.”
The Z9 military helicopter departed the capital, Accra, at 09:12 GMT en route to Obuasi, where the officials were scheduled to participate in an anti-illegal mining campaign.
According to the Ghana Armed Forces, it vanished from radar shortly after takeoff, and wreckage was later discovered in the Adansi Akrofuom district.
The actual cause of the crash remains unconfirmed by authorities.
Among the victims were:
- Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Agriculture Minister
- Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress
- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
- Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu
- Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
On behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, Chief of Staff Debrah has ordered national flags to be flown at half-mast and extended condolences to the families of the deceased, calling their deaths “a loss to the country.”
Minister Boamah, renowned for his book A Peaceful Man In An African Democracy—due for release later this year—was instrumental in countering jihadist threats along the northern border.
Minister Muhammed had led efforts against illegal gold mining, known locally as Galamsey, championing environmental preservation and community resilience.
His activism was especially prominent during the previous year’s presidential campaign.
As investigations into the crash continue, tributes are pouring in across the nation, with citizens expressing grief and gratitude for the service of the departed leaders.
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