The government has announced a series of national activities to commemorate the first anniversary of the August 6, 2025 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight senior public officials and military personnel.
A Week-Long Tribute to the Fallen Eight
The commemorative events will begin on Thursday, July 30, and are intended to honour the memory, service, and sacrifice of what the government described as the “Departed 8.” The programme includes the official presentation of the State's support to the families of the deceased.
The government has planned the events in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, key stakeholders, and alumni groups in solidarity with the bereaved families. The events are an opportunity for the nation to “pause to remember, honour, and pay tribute to the selflessness, service, and sacrifice of the 'Departed 8'.”
The Main National Commemoration
The main national commemoration will take place on Thursday, August 6, with an interfaith memorial service at the UPSA Auditorium in Madina, Accra, starting at 8:30 a.m. President John Dramani Mahama, who is Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, and Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Chair of the Armed Forces Council, are expected to attend alongside government officials, members of the security services, and the families of the victims.
The Ministry of Defence will also unveil a memorial cenotaph in honour of the deceased later that day, at 4:00 p.m., by invitation. The event is a tribute to the eight victims who lost their lives in the crash.
Replenishing Blood Banks in Memory of the Fallen
The commemorative activities will conclude on Saturday, August 7, with a nationwide blood donation exercise dubbed “Service to the Soul.” The campaign will be held at district, regional, and teaching hospitals across the country, including the 37 Military Hospital and other designated centres.
Government said the initiative aims to replenish blood banks and save lives in memory of the eight victims. The Minister for Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, signed the statement announcing the events.
The government urged Ghanaians to unite in prayer, patriotism, and support for the bereaved families while ensuring that the memory of the victims continues to inspire future generations.
Source: Joy Online
