Ghana observed a solemn state funeral for eight individuals, including the Defence Minister and the Environment Minister, who perished in a military helicopter crash in Adansi Akrofuom.
The nation entered a three-day mourning period, with flags lowered across the country, as communities grappled with the loss of key figures dedicated to public service.
President John Mahama addressed the nation, urging unity during this period of grief and emphasizing the need for collective strength to move forward.
The crash, which occurred during a mission related to tackling illegal mining activities, has raised questions about aviation safety in Ghana.
The helicopter’s black box has been recovered, and forensic teams are analyzing debris, with remains sent to South Africa for DNA identification due to the severity of the crash.
Authorities have also issued a call for citizens to return any debris found, offering cash rewards to ensure all evidence is collected for the investigation.
Public discourse has intensified around improving emergency response systems and aviation protocols.
Analysts suggest this tragedy could spur reforms in how Ghana manages its military and civilian air operations, with a focus on preventing future incidents.
The loss of the ministers, described as pivotal in their respective fields, leaves a significant gap in Ghana’s leadership as the nation navigates ongoing challenges like illegal mining.