Ruto in Mourning after CSs and Other Top Government Officials Died in a Chopper Crash

President William Ruto has expressed his sorrow following a devastating accident in Ghana that claimed the lives of eight people, including cabinet secretaries and other senior government officials.

The military helicopter had departed from Accra on its way to Obuasi in the Ashanti Region when it lost contact with air traffic controllers.

It later went down near Sikama, close to Adansi Abkrofuom. Reports indicate that the aircraft was transporting top state officials to a national function before disaster struck.

Those who died in the accident included Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment, Science and Technology Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.

Also among the victims were former Agriculture Minister and Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Mohammad Muniru Limuna, as well as Samuel Sarpong, the Vice Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The three crew members on board—Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah—were also confirmed dead.

In his condolence message, President Ruto described the tragedy as a “profound loss” and conveyed Kenya’s solidarity with Ghana during this period of mourning.

He noted that Kenya stands firmly with the people and government of Ghana, assuring the bereaved families of his deepest sympathies.

The Ghana Armed Forces confirmed the incident and said investigations had been launched to establish the exact cause of the accident. They emphasized that the country had lost great minds who dedicated their lives to national service.

African Union Commission chairperson Mahamoud Youssouf also joined in the condolences, describing the fallen officials as patriots whose leadership and commitment to Africa’s growth would be greatly missed.

The tragedy coincided with another aviation disaster in Kenya, where a light aircraft operated by AMREF crashed shortly after takeoff from Wilson Airport. The plane came down in Mwihoko, Kiambu County, killing at least two people and injuring several others.

The two accidents, occurring almost simultaneously, have sparked renewed debate over air travel safety across Africa. As investigations continue, both nations mourn the sudden loss of leaders and citizens whose absence will leave a deep void.