President John Dramani Mahama has conferred posthumous promotions on three Ghana Air Force officers who lost their lives in the August 6 helicopter crash. The announcement was made during the interdenominational state funeral held on Friday, August 15, 2025.
In his tribute, the President stated that the Chief of Defence Staff would lead the ceremonial presentation of the newly conferred ranks to the bereaved families.
Under the promotions, Squadron Leader Peter Obafemi Anala has been elevated to Wing Commander, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu promoted to Flight Lieutenant, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah advanced to Flight Sergeant.
“Promotions in our Armed Forces are never given lightly, and posthumous promotions are the highest mark of respect for duty performed until the very end,” the President said, adding that the benefits due to their families will reflect these new ranks.
He emphasised that the gesture was more than symbolic — it was a recognition of the officers’ rightful place in the nation’s service. The President also noted that civilian victims of the crash would be honoured at the next national mourning ceremony.
The Z-9 helicopter went down at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region while en route to Obuasi for the launch of the Responsible Community and Cooperative Mining Programme, claiming eight lives, including senior military officers and government officials.
