Ghana Chamber of Mines mourns helicopter crash victims

The Ghana Chamber of Mines has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of the Minister for Defence, Dr Edward Kofi Omane-Boamah, and the Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, in a helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.

In a statement released yesterday, August 7, the Chamber described the incident as a “significant loss to Ghana,” noting that the deceased were dedicated public servants who died in the line of duty.

The Chamber recalled its close collaboration with the two serving ministers in the fight against illegal mining.

“Their unwavering support was pivotal in safeguarding mining concessions, protecting water bodies, and enhancing the security of mining operations across the country,” it said.

The statement added that the leadership of the late ministers was key to the success of the multi-stakeholder approach adopted to curb illegal mining, and their absence would be deeply felt by all stakeholders in the sector.

The accident, which occurred during an official anti-illegal mining assignment on Wednesday, August 6, also took the lives of Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, former Minister for Agriculture and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chair of the NDC; Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate; Squadron Leader Peter Anala; Flying Officer Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo.

While mourning the loss, the Chamber pledged to honour its legacy by continuing to promote sustainable and responsible mining in Ghana.

“May the ultimate sacrifice of these eight gallant Ghanaians lead to an end to illegal and irresponsible mining. May their souls rest in perfect peace,” it concluded.

In the wake of Wednesday’s devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives, President John Dramani Mahama has announced interim ministerial appointments to ensure continuity in governance.  

The President has tasked the Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to assume additional responsibilities as acting Defence Minister.

Simultaneously, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, will serve as acting Minister for Environment, Science and Technology until further notice.

The decision comes after a Ghana Air Force Z-9EH helicopter carrying the two ministers and six others crashed in the Akrofuom District in the Ashanti Region.