The President of Kenya, William Ruto, has extended heartfelt condolences to President John Mahama, the Government, and the people of Ghana, following the tragic military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two cabinet ministers.
The devastating crash occurred on Wednesday, August 6, in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, resulting in the deaths of Ghana’s Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and six others, including high-ranking military personnel and government staff.
In a solemn Facebook post published on Thursday, August 7, President Ruto expressed Kenya’s solidarity during Ghana’s national mourning period.
“We extend our condolences to H.E. President John Mahama, the Government, the people of Ghana, and the bereaved families following a tragic helicopter crash that killed eight people, including two ministers,” Ruto stated.
“We stand in solidarity with Ghana in mourning this profound loss and offer our thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow. Rest in peace.”
President Ruto’s message follows a wave of support and sympathy from African and global leaders who are offering their voices to Ghana as the nation grapples with the sudden loss of senior leadership and service personnel.
In the wake of the crash, Ghana’s national flags have been ordered to fly at half-mast, and the country has entered three days of national mourning, with citizens paying tribute through flower-laying ceremonies and candlelight vigils.
Adding to the chorus of condolences, Namibia’s President, Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, issued a touching message to President Mahama and the Ghanaian people. In her statement, she emphasized the broader Pan-African impact of the tragedy.
“The loss of these dedicated leaders is not only a tragedy for Ghana but for the African continent as a whole. Their untimely passing leaves a void in public service and leadership that will be deeply mourned,” she wrote.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah described the fallen ministers and officers as “great sons and daughters of Ghana” whose contributions extended beyond national borders, helping to shape Pan-African unity and development.
“In this spirit of enduring friendship, we stand in unity with the people of Ghana as you mourn these great sons and daughters of your nation. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace, and may the Government and people of Ghana find strength and comfort during this difficult time.”
The helicopter crash has sent shockwaves throughout the continent, serving as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by public servants and the unpredictability of life. Investigations into the cause of the crash are currently underway, with updates expected in the coming days.
As Ghana mourns, the global community stands beside the West African nation, offering words of comfort, respect, and unity.
