The Government of Ghana has officially declared three days of national mourning to honour the lives lost in the recent tragic helicopter crash that shook the nation.
The mourning period, which spans Thursday, August 7 to Saturday, August 9, 2025, has been designated as a time for citizens across the country to come together in reflection, unity, and shared grief.
According to an official statement issued by the Presidency, the national observance will begin on Thursday, August 7, with a public laying of flowers and lighting of candles at the Ceremonial Garden, located in front of the presidency. This act of remembrance will commence at 1:00 PM, and the government has extended an invitation to the general public, including friends and families of the deceased, to attend.
“This solemn act of remembrance will allow citizens to honour the victims and express their condolences,” the presidential statement read.
The candle-lighting and flower-laying ceremony will continue through Friday, August 8, providing further opportunity for broad national participation. Citizens who are unable to attend in person have been encouraged to observe the mourning by holding private vigils or displaying candles and black ribbons at homes and offices as signs of solidarity.
The mourning period will culminate in a major national event titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorials”, scheduled for Saturday, August 9 at 5:00 PM. This emotionally significant gathering will take place at the Forecourt of the State House and is expected to draw attendees from all walks of life, including government officials, civil society leaders, the clergy, families of the victims, and members of the general public.
Government tributes will be delivered during the ceremony, with high-profile dignitaries expected to speak on the lives and legacies of those who tragically perished in the crash.
Speaking on behalf of the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister for Government Communications, urged Ghanaians to approach the three-day period with reverence and national solidarity.
“These three days offer our nation a vital opportunity to collectively mourn and reflect on the profound loss we have experienced,” he stated.
He added that the government recognises the depth of sorrow that the incident has caused, and it is committed to ensuring that the families of the victims are supported with dignity and care during this difficult period.
Further details concerning the State Funeral and other official arrangements are expected to be communicated in the coming days through formal government channels.
The declaration of a national mourning period is not only a symbolic gesture but a call for unity in the face of tragedy. It allows Ghanaians, both home and abroad, to share in the burden of loss and demonstrate the values of community, respect, and remembrance that lie at the heart of the Ghanaian spirit.
As the nation bows its head and lights its candles, Ghana stands in solemn remembrance of the lives that were lost—and in resilient hope for healing in the days to come.
