President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to recognise and appreciate the dedication of public servants while they are still alive and serving, instead of waiting until tragedy strikes to celebrate their contributions.
Speaking at the National Inter-Faith Memorial Service in Accra to commemorate one year since the military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight state officials and Ghana Air Force personnel, the President said public service often comes with immense personal sacrifice that goes unnoticed.
He noted that many public servants spend long periods away from their families, work under difficult conditions and make critical decisions under pressure, all in the interest of national development.
“Much of their work goes unnoticed. They travel long distances, spend countless hours away from their families, endure difficult conditions and accept risks because they believe Ghana’s progress is worth every effort,” President Mahama said.
According to him, the nation has developed a habit of celebrating the dedication of public servants only after they have lost their lives.
“And too often we celebrate such service only after tragedy strikes,” he stated, calling for a culture that values and honours commitment to public service on a daily basis.
The President also extended the government’s condolences to the families of those who perished in the August 6, 2025 helicopter crash, acknowledging that no words could fully ease their grief.
“I know that no speech can erase your pain,” he said.
The helicopter crash claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Environment, Science and Technology Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, other security officials and Ghana Air Force personnel. They were on official duty linked to the government’s fight against illegal mining when the incident occurred.
The memorial service was attended by government officials, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, security personnel and relatives of the deceased, who gathered to honour the lives and service of the eight victims.
