Sierra Leone’s President and Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Julius Maada Bio, has expressed deep sorrow over the recent military helicopter crash in Ghana which claimed the lives of eight people.
During a visit to Accra, President Maada Bio signed a book of condolence in honour of the victims, describing the incident as a profound tragedy not only for Ghana but for the entire West African region. He noted that the loss resonates deeply among ECOWAS member states, given their shared commitment to peace, stability, and regional cooperation.
As part of his tribute, the President laid flowers on behalf of ECOWAS to honour the victims, symbolising the region’s collective mourning and respect for those who lost their lives. The gesture was received with deep appreciation by Ghanaian officials and the families of the deceased.
In his message, President Maada Bio conveyed his solidarity with President John Dramani Mahama, the bereaved families, and the people of Ghana during this difficult time. He stressed the importance of unity in moments of national grief, highlighting the bonds of friendship and mutual support that exist among African nations.
The Ghanaian government has announced that an inter-denominational state funeral for the eight victims will be held at the Black Star Square on Friday, 15th August. The event is expected to be attended by high-profile dignitaries, religious leaders, members of the public, and international guests who wish to pay their respects.
In the lead-up to the funeral, books of condolence will be opened from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August at the Ministries of Defence, Environment, and Foreign Affairs. Additional books will be available at the headquarters of the Ghana Armed Forces, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), providing an opportunity for the public to express their sympathies.
Messages of condolence have continued to pour in from across the continent and beyond, with governments, civil society groups, and international organisations joining in mourning the victims. Many have commended Ghana for the dignified manner in which it has handled the aftermath of the tragedy.
President Mahama has called for calm, urging Ghanaians to focus on unity and compassion rather than political division. He emphasised that the strength of the nation lies in its ability to come together in the face of adversity, a sentiment echoed by President Maada Bio in his tribute.
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