A military helicopter crashed near Obuasi on Wednesday morning, and all eight people on board died instantly.
The victims included two government ministers, so President Mahama immediately canceled all his events for the week.
The helicopter left Accra at 9:12 am because it was flying to Obuasi for official duties. However, minutes later, it disappeared from radar, and rescue teams soon found burning wreckage.
Therefore, the government has declared a three day national mourning. During this time, all flags will fly at half-mast nationwide. President Mahama called this “Ghana’s darkest hour,” but he promised full support for grieving families.
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang visited victims’ families personally, starting with relatives of the Environment Minister. In addition, other teams visited families across the country, and the NDC chairman joined these condolence visits.
The dead included Defence Minister Dr. Boamah and Environment Minister Alhaji Mohammed. On the other hand, three military crew members also perished, along with two NDC officials.
Authorities don’t know why the helicopter crashed, but bad weather might have been a factor. For example, the aircraft model had flown safely before, so investigators will examine the wreckage carefully.
Many Ghanaians shared shock on social media, and people placed flowers at crash sites. In addition, churches held special prayers nationwide, while schools observed moments of silence Thursday.
This tragedy raises safety questions, so experts want better aircraft maintenance checks. However, the government promises stricter flight rules, and Ghana now focuses on honoring its lost leaders.
The victims served Ghana with distinction, therefore their funerals will have full state honors. On the other hand, the nation stands united in grief, but recovery will take time after this loss.
Air safety checks have began immediately, and the military has grounded similar helicopters temporarily. In addition, new flight protocols will follow soon, because Ghana wants to prevent future tragedies.
The crash site remains closed, but forensic teams work there daily. For example, they search for clues about the crash, and a full report comes in 30 days.
Businesses near Obuasi offered help, such as hotels housing grieving families for free. Moreover, restaurants provided free meals to rescuers, so Ghana’s spirit shines in hard times.
The world sent condolences, including the UN Secretary General who called President Mahama. In addition, neighboring countries offered support teams, and Ghana appreciates this global solidarity.
This accident changed many lives, especially the ministers who left young families behind. However, their colleagues struggle with the loss, but Ghana will remember them forever.
Healing begins now, starting with counseling services for victims’ families. Furthermore, memorial plans start next week, and the nation walks this painful path together.
Future flights will have stricter rules, and new safety tech comes soon. Therefore, Ghana honors its dead by improving, so the victims’ legacy brings positive change.
