Prez. Mahama Calls for Recognition of Public Servants Before Tragedy Strikes

By Yaw Opoku Amoako August 6, 2026

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to appreciate and celebrate the dedication of public servants while they are still alive and actively contributing to national development.

Speaking at the National Interfaith Memorial Service on Thursday, August 6, 2026, held to commemorate the first anniversary of the military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, President Mahama said many public officials make enormous sacrifices that often go unnoticed.

He noted that public service frequently requires individuals to spend extended periods away from their families, endure difficult working conditions, travel under challenging circumstances and make critical decisions under pressure.

“As president, I have often reflected on the enormous sacrifices made by the men and women who dedicate their lives to public service. Much of their work goes unnoticed,” he said.

President Mahama added that many people accept personal risks because of their commitment to serving the country and advancing Ghana’s interests.

“They travel long distances. They spend countless hours away from their families. They endure difficult conditions. They make decisions under pressure. They accept risks because they believe that Ghana’s progress is worth every effort they put in,” he stated.

The President expressed concern that society often waits until public servants lose their lives before acknowledging their contributions.

“Too often, we celebrate such service only after tragedy strikes. Today, we must resolve to appreciate public service even as it is performed daily,” he said.

The memorial service was organised one year after a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter crashed in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region while travelling from Accra on an official assignment, killing all eight people on board.

The victims included Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, former Ashanti Regional Minister Dr Samuel Sarpong, and former NDC parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye.

Three Ghana Armed Forces personnel who formed the helicopter crew — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — also died in the crash.

The interfaith gathering brought together families of the deceased, government officials, traditional leaders, religious figures and members of the Ghana Armed Forces to honour the lives, service and sacrifices of those who lost their lives in the tragedy.