President John Mahama has urged Ghanaians to channel their sorrow from the recent military helicopter crash into a strengthened resolve for national unity and development.
Speaking at an Evening of Reflections and Memorial held at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra, Mr Mahama expressed his deep personal sorrow for the eight victims who lost their lives in the crash on August 6 at Adansi Akrofuom.
“These were more than just names in news reports,” he said. “They were dedicated public servants, united by their commitment to Ghana’s success.”
The former president called on the nation to mourn collectively while embracing the responsibility to heal and move forward. He emphasised that the tragedy should serve as a poignant reminder of the critical work that remains to be done in building a stronger Ghana.
“We come together not as divided factions but as one family,” Mahama said. “This tragedy reminds us how fragile life is and how crucial it is for us to stand united in the face of loss.”
Honouring the victims, military officers, politicians, and civil servants, Mahama highlighted the broad impact of their service across the country.
He named the victims, including Flight Officer Chumam Pedu, Squadron Leader Peter Anala, and Dr Ibrahim Murtala, MP for Tamale Central and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, among others, paying tribute to their dedication and sacrifice.
Their deaths, he said, “call on us all to renew our dedication to building the Ghana they envisioned: a nation of justice, opportunity, and prosperity for all.”
Mahama underscored the importance of focusing on facts and prevention, warning against blame and division.
Referencing a recent tragic accident that claimed the lives of 15 young church members, he highlighted the recurring challenges Ghana faces and the resilience required to overcome them.
“As we mourn, let us commit ourselves to healing and rebuilding,” he urged. “Let their memories inspire us to act with courage, innovation, and shared purpose.”
With the official mourning period coming to an end, Mahama announced that the burial of the victims would begin imminently, with support pledged for the families affected.
He concluded his address by quoting a poem by Professor Kofi Awoonor, envisioning a peaceful journey beyond life and encouraging Ghanaians to honour the legacy of those lost.
“May this moment of sorrow unite us in a common resolve to build a stronger Ghana,” he said.
