President William Ruto has joined world leaders in mourning the deaths of two Ghanaian Cabinet Secretaries and six officials who perished in a military helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, in Ghana’s Ashanti region.

In a condoling message on Thursday, August 7, President Ruto conveyed his sympathies to President John Mahama and the people of Ghana, describing the tragedy as a “profound loss.”

 “We extend our condolences to President John Mahama, the Government, the people of Ghana, and the bereaved families following a tragic helicopter crash  that killed eight people, including two ministers,” President Ruto posted through his X  account.

“We stand in solidarity with Ghana in mourning this profound loss and offer our thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow.”

Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’oei also expressed grief, joining the world in mourning. 

 “I am devastated by the loss of the precious lives of these great Ghanaian leaders and gallant servicemen of this great sister country. We mourn and pray with you.”

The crash took place in the Ashanti Region while headed to Obuasi, a town southwest of the country.

It claimed the lives of Ghana’s Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed. 

Other victims who perished include Alhaji Muniru Mohammed (Deputy National Security Coordinator), Samuel Aboagye (former parliamentary candidate), Dr. Samuel Sarpong (National Democratic Congress (NDC) Vice Chairman), and three Ghana Armed Forces personnel:  Peter Bafemi Anala (Squadron leader), Twum Ampadu(flying officer), and Sergeant Ernest Addo(engineer).

The Government of Ghana has declared a three-day national mourning period starting Thursday, August 7. 

“The president has suspended all his scheduled activities and programs for the rest of the week following Wednesday’s tragedy. A three-day national mourning to commence today… Flags will fly at half-mast until further notice,”  Felix Kwakye, Ghana Spokesperson, said.