The African Union has expressed its solidarity with Ghana following the tragic military helicopter crash that killed eight people, including two senior cabinet ministers.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the Government of Ghana, and the families of those who perished in Wednesday’s crash in the Ashanti Region.
Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed were among the eight fatalities when the Ghana Air Force helicopter went down whilst en route to launch a mining development programme.
“The African Union stands in full solidarity with Ghana in mourning this profound loss. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace,” Mr Youssouf stated in his official response to the tragedy.
The AU Commission Chairperson also extended his sympathies to the Ghana Armed Forces and the ruling National Democratic Congress during what he described as “this difficult time.”
The continental body’s statement underscores the regional significance of the loss, with Ghana being a key member state and contributor to African Union peacekeeping operations across the continent.
The helicopter crash has prompted an outpouring of international sympathy, with neighbouring West African nations and international partners offering their condolences to Ghana’s government and people.
President Mahama has declared three days of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast as the country grieves the loss of the senior officials and military personnel.
The tragedy represents one of Ghana’s deadliest aviation disasters in over a decade and has raised fresh questions about air safety protocols in the West African nation.
Military authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, with the cause remaining unknown at this time.
