The government has announced a series of commemorative activities to mark the first anniversary of the tragic helicopter crash of August 6, 2025, which claimed the lives of eight distinguished national patriots.
According to an official statement from the Presidency shared on X and sighted by GhanaWeb, the programme is intended to honour the selfless service and sacrifice of the “Departed 8” while standing in solidarity with their families.
Activities scheduled include the official presentation of state support to the families, the Dr Edward Omane Boamah Memorial Lecture on August 4, 2026, a National Inter‑Faith Memorial Service on August 6, 2026, and the unveiling of a memorial cenotaph.
A nationwide “Service to the Soul” Blood Donation Drive will also be held on August 7, 2026, as a lasting tribute to their memory.
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"Government invites the general public, civil society organisations, religious bodies, media houses and well-wishers to participate in the commemorative activities, particularly the nationwide blood donation exercise, as a lasting tribute to the memory and legacy of the Departed 8," the statement added.
About the August 6 helicopter crash
The crash occurred on August 6, 2025, when a Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9 helicopter, carrying eight people from Accra, crashed in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region while en route to Obuasi.
Among the victims were then Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah and then Environment, Science and Technology Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, along with other senior officials and three crew members. There were no survivors.
See statement below
Government announces series of activities to mark the first anniversary of the tragic helicopter crash of 6 August 2025, which claimed the lives of eight distinguished national patriots. The commemorative programme is intended to honour their selfless service and sacrifice, while… pic.twitter.com/omgC92EHrL
— Ghana Presidency (@GhanaPresidency) July 31, 2026
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