COCMAG mourns loss of ministers and military officers in Ashanti Region helicopter crash

The Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG), has expressed deep sorrow over the Ghana Air Force helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region that claimed eight lives, including two serving ministers of state.

The August 6, 2025, tragedy involved a Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter and has plunged the nation into mourning. Among the victims were Defence Minister, Hon. Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah; Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Food and Agriculture, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna; Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress and former Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Samuel Sarpong; and former NDC parliamentary candidate for Obuasi East, Mr Samuel Aboagye.

Three Ghana Air Force personnel—Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum-Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah—also perished. Dr Murtala Mohammed and Alhaji Limuna have since been buried according to Islamic rites, following prayers led by the National Chief Imam, with interment at the military cemetery.

In a statement issued Monday, COCMAG Chief Executive Officer, Dr George Dawson-Ahmoah, extended condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the Government, bereaved families, and all Ghanaians, describing the victims as “illustrious sons of the land whose dedication, service, and sacrifice have left an indelible mark on our country’s progress.”

He noted that the late officials and officers served Ghana with distinction, leaving behind legacies of patriotism and leadership that should inspire future generations. The Chamber, he said, recognises the crucial role of public servants in creating an enabling environment for industries to thrive, stressing that their loss would be felt in governance and in the economic sectors they influenced.

Calling the incident a painful moment in Ghana’s development journey, Dr Dawson-Ahmoah urged unity in mourning and in upholding the values of service and patriotism embodied by the deceased.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families, the Government, and all Ghanaians. We pray that the Almighty will grant their souls peaceful rest and give the nation strength to bear this great loss,” the statement said.