Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), has extended her deepest condolences to Ghana's President John Mahama and the people of Ghana following the tragic death of two key cabinet members in a helicopter crash. The ministers who lost their lives are Dr. Edward Kofi Boamah, the Minister of Defence, and Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology ¹.
Details of the Helicopter Crash
The helicopter crash occurred on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, in the central Ashanti Region of Ghana. The Z-9 helicopter, which belonged to the Ghana Armed Forces, was conveying passengers from Accra to Obuasi for an event when it lost contact and crashed, resulting in the deaths of eight people on board, including the two ministers ².
Okonjo-Iweala's Condolence Message
Okonjo-Iweala expressed her profound sorrow over the devastating loss of lives in the helicopter crash. In a post on X, she wrote: "My deepest condolences to HE President John Dramani Mahama, the bereaved families, and the people of Ghana for the tragic loss of the Hon. Min. of Defence Dr. Edward Kofi Boamah and the Hon. Min. of Environment, Science and Technology Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammad and six others in a terrible helicopter crash. May their souls rest in perfect peace" ¹.
Reactions from Other Leaders
The incident has drawn condolences from various leaders and dignitaries, including the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, who announced the tragic news and directed that all national flags be flown at half-mast to honor the memory of the victims ².
Conclusion
The tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Ghana's Minister of Defence and Minister of Environment has sent shockwaves across the nation, with many leaders and dignitaries paying tribute to the deceased. Okonjo-Iweala's condolence message is a testament to the respect and admiration she has for the people of Ghana and the government. As the nation mourns the loss of these key figures, it also highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and security of public officials ¹.
