Mahama Announces Posthumous Promotions for GAF Officers Killed in Helicopter Crash

By Joylinda Laryea / 15 August, 2025

President John Dramani Mahama has announced posthumous promotions for the three Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) officers who lost their lives in the tragic military helicopter crash on August 6, 2025, at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti Region.

Delivering a heartfelt tribute during a solemn interdenominational state funeral held today, the President said the promotions were a mark of utmost respect for the officers’ dedication and service to the nation, even unto death.

“Promotions in our Armed Forces are never given lightly, and posthumous promotions are the highest mark of respect for duty performed even until death,” President Mahama stated.

The officers were part of the crew aboard the Ghana Air Force Z-9 helicopter that crashed while en route to Obuasi for the launch of the Responsible Community and Cooperative Mining Programme.

The President confirmed the following promotions:

• Squadron Leader Peter Obafemi Anala has been posthumously promoted to Wing Commander.

• Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu has been promoted to Flight Lieutenant.

• Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah has been promoted to the rank of Flight Sergeant.

President Mahama revealed that the Chief of Defence Staff will oversee the ceremonial presentation of the newly conferred ranks to the families of the fallen officers. He also noted that the benefits due to their families will reflect these new ranks.

“These are not just symbolic gestures,” the President said, “but a recognition of the rightful place these gallant officers have earned in our history.”

He further announced that the five civilians who also died in the crash will be honoured posthumously during the next National Mourners’ Ceremony.

The crash claimed eight lives in total, including prominent government officials:

• Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defence

• Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation

• Samuel Aboagye, former parliamentary candidate

• Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)

• Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

The state funeral, attended by high-ranking military and government officials, was marked by moments of reflection, sorrow, and national gratitude for the lives and service of the deceased.