The greatest memorial to honour 8 fallen heroes is responsible leadership not monument - Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians, particularly leaders, to honour the memory of the eight departed heroes who lost their lives in a helicopter crash by strengthening institutions, improving safety standards and placing national service above self-interest.

Speaking at a memorial service marking the one-year anniversary of the tragedy, President Mahama said the occasion was not only one of remembrance but also an opportunity for national reflection.

"Today is one of those days that the nation slows its pace, not because history demands it, but because memory does. We gather because remembrance is an obligation for every grateful nation," he stated on August 6, 2026.

According to the President, the greatest memorial to those who lost their lives is not a physical monument but responsible governance and a steadfast commitment to protecting those who serve the nation.

"The greatest memorial we can build is not one made of stone or bronze, it is one that is build through responsible leadership, improved systems, a steadfast commitment to protecting those who dedicate their lives to Ghana," the President remarked.

Mr. Mahama stressed that the tragedy should remind leaders that every decision made in public office has consequences for people's lives.

He said the memories of the fallen officers impose a responsibility on the nation to build stronger institutions, reinforce safety standards, invest in the welfare of security personnel and ensure lessons from the tragedy are never forgotten.

"Today should also be a moment of reflection for all of us who are entrusted with leadership that every decision we make affect lives. Every public office is ultimately a sacred trust.

"Their memory therefore imposes upon us a solemn obligation to build stronger institutions to strengthen safety standards wherever necessary, to invest in the welfare of our personnel and to ensure that no lesson from this tragedy will ever be forgotten," he added.

President Mahama urged Ghanaians to leave the memorial service with a renewed commitment to integrity, selfless service and building a country where every citizen feels that their contribution to national development is valued.

The eight victims died on August 6, 2025, after a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region while travelling from Accra to the region.

The crash claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah; Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed; former Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Samuel Sarpong; and former NDC parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye.

Three Ghana Armed Forces personnel who were part of the helicopter crew — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — also lost their lives