The Government of Ghana has announced a detailed programme of activities for the three-day national mourning period to honour the eight individuals who tragically lost their lives in the military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6.
The mourning period, which runs from Thursday, August 7 to Saturday, August 9, will feature a series of public memorial events aimed at allowing citizens to express condolences, reflect on the national tragedy, and honour the memories of the departed.
In a statement issued by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications and Spokesperson to the President, the government said the events will begin on Thursday afternoon with a public laying of flowers and lighting of candles at the Ceremonial Garden in front of the Presidency, starting at 1:00 PM.
“Members of the public, families, and friends are respectfully invited to participate,” the statement noted.
The flower-laying and candle-lighting ceremony will continue on Friday, August 8, providing additional opportunity for the public to pay their respects.
The mourning period will conclude on Saturday, August 9, with an “Evening of Reflections and Memorials” at the Forecourt of the State House, starting at 5:00 PM. The event will bring together Ghanaians from all walks of life to reflect on the lives and contributions of the deceased.
“These three days offer our nation a vital opportunity to collectively mourn and reflect on the profound loss we have experienced,” the government said.
“We urge all citizens to observe the period of national mourning with dignity and respect.”
Among those who perished in the crash were Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, senior security officials, and military personnel.
The government has pledged to communicate further details regarding the State Funeral and additional arrangements through official channels.
