UN expresses solidarity with Ghana over tragic Air Force helicopter crash

The United Nations has extended its heartfelt condolences to Ghana following the tragic Ghana Air Force helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including senior government ministers and security officials.

In an official statement issued on August 6, 2025, the UN Resident Coordinator for Ghana, Zia Choudhury, expressed profound sorrow on behalf of the UN family, describing the incident as both a national and international tragedy.

“It is with profound sorrow that we receive the tragic news of the fatal crash involving the Ghana Airforce Z-9 helicopter, claiming the lives of distinguished Government of Ghana officials, including the Honourable Minister for Defence, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, and the Honourable Minister for Environment, Science, and Technology, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed,” the statement read.

The United Nations family in Ghana expressed solidarity with the country during this difficult time of national mourning.

“The United Nations family in Ghana mourns with the nation in this moment of deep grief. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and to the Government and people of Ghana, as we together face this painful loss. This tragedy is not only a national wound but also a loss felt across the international community,” the UN added.

Mr. Choudhury emphasized the shared grief and unity in mourning, concluding with a tribute to the deceased:

“We stand united at this time of mourning. We honour the memory of all those who have passed, with hope for their lasting peace.”

Background to the tragedy

The crash occurred on the morning of Tuesday, August 6, 2025, near Sikaman in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. The victims were aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter en route from Accra to Obuasi when the aircraft reportedly lost contact with aviation authorities shortly after takeoff.