By Zobia Zulfqar 
President John Dramani Mahama has presented compensation packages to the children and families of the eight victims who lost their lives in Ghana’s military helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region on August 6, 2025.
The presentation ceremony, held in Accra, fulfilled the Government’s commitment to support the bereaved families of the distinguished public servants and military officers who died while undertaking official national duties. The initiative is intended to provide financial relief to surviving spouses and children while recognising the invaluable service rendered by the deceased to the nation.
The tragic helicopter crash claimed the lives of eight senior government officials and security personnel, sending shockwaves across Ghana and prompting a period of national mourning. The victims were remembered for their dedication to public service, leadership and commitment to strengthening national development and security.
Among those who perished were Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, the Minister for Defence; Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation and Member of Parliament for Tamale Central; Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, National Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); and Mr Samuel Aboagye, Deputy Director General of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO). The remaining victims included military personnel who were part of the official assignment.
President Mahama described the compensation packages as a demonstration of the nation’s gratitude and responsibility toward the families left behind. He acknowledged that no financial support could replace the lives lost but stressed that the Government remained committed to standing with the affected families during their difficult period.
He said the sacrifices made by the victims would never be forgotten and assured the beneficiaries that the State would continue to honour their memory through practical support and lasting recognition.
The compensation package forms part of broader government efforts to ensure the welfare of families affected by the national tragedy. In addition to financial assistance, officials indicated that measures were being taken to support the education and long term wellbeing of the children of the deceased.
President Mahama urged the families to remain united and assured them that the Government would continue to engage them on issues concerning their welfare. He also encouraged them to take comfort in the knowledge that their loved ones served Ghana with distinction and left behind enduring legacies of patriotism and public service.
Family representatives expressed appreciation to the President and the Government for fulfilling their promise to provide support. They acknowledged that while nothing could replace their loved ones, the assistance would help address immediate financial needs and contribute to the education and future care of the children affected by the tragedy.
Several government officials, military commanders and representatives of the security services attended the ceremony. They joined President Mahama in paying tribute to the victims and reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the memory of those who died while serving the nation.
The Ghana Armed Forces also reiterated its support for the bereaved families and pledged to continue providing the necessary institutional assistance to military families affected by the incident. Officials noted that the sacrifices of service personnel remain central to Ghana’s peace, security and national stability.
The helicopter crash remains one of the country’s most significant aviation tragedies involving senior public officials. Investigations into the incident have contributed to ongoing discussions about aviation safety, operational procedures and the protection of personnel engaged in official assignments.
President Mahama concluded the ceremony by calling on Ghanaians to honour the memory of the victims through unity, dedication to national service and a renewed commitment to building stronger public institutions. He said the nation would always remember the courage, professionalism and sacrifice of those who lost their lives while serving Ghana.
The presentation of the compensation packages marks another step in Ghana’s efforts to support the families of the victims while ensuring that the contributions of the deceased continue to be recognised and celebrated for generations to come.