I was in my office on the afternoon of August 6, 2025 focused on work when my phone lit up with the news. At first I thought it was just a routine update.

But the moment I read that a military helicopter carrying some of our most respected state officials and military men had crashed, I froze. My heart sank. It felt unreal.
Around me, the office went quiet as everyone looked on their screens in shock. I could feel the weight of the news deep inside me. This was not just a story on the radio or television. It felt very personal to me.

That day, a Z-9 military helicopter left Accra for Obuasi on a mission to meet communities as part of efforts by the government to fight illegal mining. Shortly after take-off, it was said to have disappeared from radar.

Later, we learned it crashed in the forest near Sikaman in the Ashanti Region. All eight onboard were killed.

His Excellency John Dramani Mahama declared a three-day national mourning, and flags were lowered to half-mast. This loss hurt us all because these were not strangers. They were people known to the public because of their service to the country.

Who we lost

State Officials

- Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Defence Minister.
- Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment Science and Technology.
- Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
- Alhaji Limuna Mohammed Muniru, Acting Deputy National Security Coodinator.
- Samuel Aboagye, Acting Deputy Director General in Charge of Relief and Protocol at the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO).
 
The Crew

- Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala (Pilot).
- Flying Officer Manaen Twum-Ampadu (Co-Pilot).
- Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah (Crew member).

These individuals were committed to their duties, dedicated and brave. This painful memory will remain in our minds forever.
 
The pain of duty

As a public servant I feel this tragic loss deeply because I know it can happen to anyone. This is not politics, it is pure heartache.

We lost a generation in a moment! Dying in the line of duty in such a horrific manner is painful. These men were serving our dear nation selflessly, and they gave their all. We cannot question God’s will, but I pray that such tragedy never happens in our country ever again.

For their sacrifice and selflessness, my heart goes out to their families, especially their children. May God give them strength in this difficult time.
 
National grief

President Mahama cancelled his engagements. The nation stopped. Flags were flown at half-mast. In my mind, I joined the families in grief, feeling the loss!
I was also with my boss, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Exim Bank (GEXIM) Honourable Sylvester Mensah and other colleagues when we laid a wreath at the Jubilee House on Thursday in memory of our fallen countrymen.

One could see that we were not the only individuals badly affected both emotionally and physiologically by the unfortunate incident. Everyone else who gathered at the Jubilee house was visibly shaken. It was unforgettable!

These sorrowful moments have shown how united we can be as Ghanaians. In the face of this tragedy, the whole country came together. Millions have expressed their grief, shared heartfelt messages of condolence, and stood with the families as they mourn.

It has been touching to see people from all walks of life showing concern and support. The leadership and members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) joined in expressing their sympathy, which is commendable.

In times like this, we are reminded that beyond politics, backgrounds, and differences, we are one people. This unity is a strong indication that we can stand together, not only in sorrow but also in building a stronger, more united nation for all.
 
A quiet reflection

Is it not surprising how quickly life can be taken away? Just hours earlier on that fateful day Wednesday August 6, 2025these men were alive, full of purpose. Now they have become memories.

Life is indeed short and unpredictable. The sudden loss of our cherished brothers in this tragedy should remind all of us that no one knows what tomorrow holds. Let us love one another while we have the chance, speak kindly, forgive quickly, and support each other.

Let us serve with patriotism and dedication, let us give our best to our nation in whatever role we play just as these victims of the helicopter crash did. In the end, love and service to others are the true legacies we have to leave behind.

Let us focus on working to make our beloved nation great and strong!

May their souls rest in perfect peace.