Ghana Declares Three Days of National Mourning After Fatal Helicopter Crash
Ghana has declared a three-day national mourning period following a tragic helicopter crash that killed eight people including two top government officials.
The announcement came on Thursday, August 7, 2025, through a press release signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of Government Communications.
The helicopter, carrying officials en route to an illegal mining site in Obuasi, went down on Wednesday in the Ashanti Region.
Among the dead were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed. The nation remains in shock, and the mourning period is set for August 7 to 9.
The national mourning is to honour the victims. A public flower-laying ceremony and candle-lighting began today at 1:00 PM at the Ceremonial Garden in front of the Jubilee House. Ghanaians are invited to participate throughout the mourning period. The tribute will continue on Friday, August 8, giving citizens more time to express their condolences.
The official observance will end on Saturday, August 9, with an “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” at 5:00 PM at the State House Forecourt. This event will bring together families, officials, and the public in a final act of remembrance. The government indicated that a full state funeral is in planning, and more details will be released in due course.
Social media platforms have been flooded with tributes, prayers, and calls for a full investigation into the crash. Many are calling for greater transparency around official air travel and improved safety measures.
As the nation mourns, the government has asked all citizens to observe the period with dignity and unity. Official updates will be provided at www.presidency.gov.gh.
