The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has extended heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Ghana following the fatal military helicopter crash near Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofuom area of the Ashanti Region.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Wednesday, August 6, claimed the lives of several senior government officials, including Ghana’s Minister of Defence, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
In an official statement, ECOWAS leadership and staff expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing it as a significant blow not only to Ghana but to the entire West African region. The organisation praised the late ministers for their notable contributions to regional security, governance, and sustainable development.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims, the Government of Ghana, and the entire nation during this time of grief,” the statement read.
ECOWAS reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ghana during this period of national mourning, emphasising the shared values and unity that bind member states together in times of crisis.
The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, officially announced the tragedy during a press briefing, noting that national flags would be flown at half-mast in honour of the deceased. He also conveyed the government’s condolences to the families and called for national unity as the country processes the devastating loss.
The crash also claimed the lives of other prominent individuals, including:
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Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
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Samuel Aboagye, former NDC Parliamentary Candidate for Obuasi East
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Samuel Sarpong, NDC Vice Chairman and former Mayor of Kumasi
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) named the fallen crew members as:
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Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala
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Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu
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Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
