The government has announced comprehensive arrangements for the state funeral of the victims of the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash in Adansi Akrufuom, which claimed eight lives. The ceremony, scheduled for Friday, August 15, will be conducted with full military honours by the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
Addressing a press conference in Accra on Thursday, August 14, Deputy Chief of Staff Stan Dogbe outlined the solemn three-part programme. The event will open with Bible and Qur’an recitals, followed by the main memorial service, and conclude with the burial rites.
The pre-burial segment is set to begin at 7:30 a.m. and end at 9:00 a.m. The Vice President is expected to arrive at 8:50 a.m., while President John Dramani Mahama will be received at 9:00 a.m. to formally commence the state service.
During the three-hour ceremony, attendees will hear biographical readings of each of the eight crash victims, as well as tributes from widows, children, senior government officials, and institutional representatives.
After the service, the remains of six victims will be transported to the military cemetery at Tse Addo for interment. The burial will be jointly officiated by the GAF and the respective churches of the deceased, blending military tradition with religious observance.
The victims to be laid to rest on August 15 are:
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah
Two other victims — Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed and Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna — were buried earlier on Sunday, August 10, in line with Islamic burial customs.
Mr. Dogbe appealed to the public to arrive early and adhere strictly to security protocols, noting that high-profile dignitaries and the bereaved families will attend the funeral.
The August 6 crash has been described as one of the most tragic aviation incidents in Ghana’s recent history, sparking national mourning and renewed calls for air safety reforms.
