Flags Raised After State Funeral for Helicopter Crash Victims

The Government of Ghana has instructed that all national flags at public institutions be raised to full mast, marking the end of the official mourning period for the eight public officials who perished in a military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6.

The directive was issued by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah following the successful state funeral held in honour of the victims. According to an official statement released by the Presidency on Monday, August 18, the flags—which had flown at half-mast during the mourning period—are now to be returned to their standard position.

The move symbolizes a national return to regular state functions after a period marked by grief and collective remembrance.

A Tragic Loss

The tragic helicopter crash claimed the lives of key public servants and military personnel, sending shockwaves throughout the nation. Among those who died were:

Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence
Dr. Samuel Sarpong, NDC Vice Chairman
Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator
Samuel Aboagye, Presidential Staffer
Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala
Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu
Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah

These individuals were described as dedicated patriots who died in the line of duty. A state funeral held in their honour brought together government officials, religious leaders, diplomats, military personnel, and citizens from across the country.

Nationwide Support and Condolences

The Presidency, in its statement, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Ghanaians and members of the international community for the overwhelming support shown during the days following the tragedy.

“We are profoundly moved by the outpouring of love and solidarity across the country and from abroad,” the statement read. “Your messages of condolence, participation in the state funeral, and acts of generosity toward the bereaved families have been a source of great comfort.”

Special recognition was given to traditional leaders, members of the clergy, Muslim clerics, civil society groups, political leaders, and representatives from the diplomatic corps for their active support during the mourning period.

Their presence at memorial services and the funeral, along with various expressions of sympathy, were praised by the government as emblematic of Ghana’s unity in times of national tragedy.

Corporate Compassion: Support Fund Launched

In a gesture of corporate social responsibility, Stanbic Bank Ghana has donated GHS500,000 to the newly established Children’s Support Fund, which aims to provide financial aid to the children of the deceased.

The fund, announced alongside the funeral arrangements, is intended to ensure the long-term welfare of the victims’ families, particularly their dependents. The government extended its appreciation to the bank and encouraged other institutions to contribute toward supporting those left behind.

A Call for Unity Beyond Mourning

The statement concluded with a call for continued unity, compassion, and resilience as the nation moves forward.

“As we resume the national task of building a better Ghana, let us hold fast to the values of togetherness, empathy, and mutual support that have defined our response to this loss,” the Presidency urged.

The restoration of national flags to full mast symbolizes not only the end of official mourning but also the strength of a nation that chooses to honour its fallen by continuing their work with purpose and solidarity.

While the physical presence of the victims is gone, their legacy—as public servants, patriots, and leaders—remains deeply etched in the collective memory of the nation.