Vigil held at Burma Camp, Takoradi for departed patriots

The Ghana Air Force has honoured the eight victims that perished in the helicopter crash that occurred on August 6, 2025. 

The solemn event, which took place at the Air Force Base in Accra, was attended by relatives and friends of the victims who were all dressed in black apparels, and stood closely together, with some clutching flickering candles while others held photographs of their loved ones amidst soothing hymns being played in the background.

There was also a recitation of the Holy Quran and prayers for the departed souls.

The Ghana Air Force Z9 helicopter crashed at Brofoyedru, near Obuasi, in the Ashanti Region.

The aircraft was said to have taken-off from Accra at 0912 hours on the fateful day, en route to Obuasi but lost radar contact shortly after, according to the GAF.

The victims were three servicemen, two ministers of state and other senior government officials.

And in the Western Region, the Methodist Park at Sekondi in the Western Region was a scene of sorrow and grief at a vigil in memory of the fallen heroes. 

Among the huge crowd were some prominent citizens of Sekondi Takoradi who expressed regret of the unfortunate situation that had befallen the nation.

The speakers included the Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, some top Military Commanders, and the Paramount Chief of the Wasa Amenfi Traditional Area, Nana Tetrete Okuamoah Sakyim II, among others.

The event was organised by the Western Regional House of Chiefs.

Tributes

The Engineering Wing of the Ghana Air Force in Accra, begun the evening’s eulogies with a heartfelt tribute to Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah, a highly skilled technician, whose mastery over the Z-9 helicopter was said to have been matched only by his unwavering commitment to the nation’s defence.

Ernest Brogya Genfi (right), Deputy Minister of Defence; Lieutenant General William Agyepong (middle), Chief of the Defence Staff, Ghana Armed Forces, and some senior military officers consoling families of the deceased at the vigil in Accra. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI

“He was dependable, meticulous, and always proud to maintain the aircraft that defended Ghana’s sovereignty. His laughter eased tension, his diligence set the standard, and his integrity forged unbreakable bonds,” the tribute read.

Regular Career Course Intake 61, also honoured Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, affectionately known as the “Jollof Hunter”, describing him as a humble, fair and influential leader.  

“His greatness lay not just in his rank, but in the man he was. He led without pride and listened without judgment. Today, he has not fallen, he has simply flown ahead into skies we cannot yet see,”another tribute read.

The  Regular Career Course 54 also honoured Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, affectionately known as the “Sandema Pilot.”

They described him as a man of dreams and generosity.

He was remembered for his humour, entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to helping others.

“Above all, Peter was a loving husband, a devoted Catholic, and a loyal son. It is inspiring, knowing he died doing what he loved most — flying,” they said.

Fallen heroes

The Deputy Minister of Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, described  the fallen officers as patriots who embodied the highest ideals of service, sacrifice, honour and devotion to the country.

He said that their deaths served as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks undertaken daily by the country’s servicemen and women, whose vigilance ensured national peace and security.

Mr Genfi said that the loss should be viewed not only as a moment of national mourning, but also as a call to collective responsibility, both for leadership to provide  the necessary resources and support for the GAF, and for citizens to uphold the peace the fallen had worked to protect.

“Their dedication to duty will never be forgotten.

Their families will always be in our plans,” he said.

Mr Genfi also paid tribute to the late Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, and the other victims, acknowledging the vacuum their passing had created in national service and leadership.

He called on all citizens to draw inspiration from their lives and serve with integrity and purpose.