Government has announced a series of national activities to mark the first anniversary of the August 6, 2025 military helicopter crash that killed eight distinguished public servants, with events scheduled to begin on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Presidency, the programme is aimed at remembering, honouring and paying tribute to the “Departed 8” for their selflessness, service and sacrifice.
“In solidarity with the bereaved families, Government, together with the Ministry of Defence, key stakeholders, and alumni groups, has planned a series of solemn national events,” the statement said. Government, civil society organisations, religious bodies, media houses and the general public have been cordially invited to participate.
Activities will begin on Thursday, July 30, 2026 with the official presentation of the State’s support to the families of the “Departed 8”.
On Tuesday, August 4, the Dr. Edward Omane Boamah Memorial Lecture will be held at Burma Hall, Burma Camp, Accra, starting at 2:00 PM. It is being organised by the Ministry of Defence and the old students of Pope John SHS (POJOBA). The general public is invited.
The main day of commemoration, Thursday, August 6, will feature two events. A National Inter-Faith Memorial Service of prayer, worship and remembrance for the “Departed 8” will take place at the UPSA Auditorium in Madina, Accra, beginning at 8:30 AM. In attendance will be the President and Commander-in-Chief, H.E. John Dramani Mahama and the Vice President and Chair of the Armed Forces Council, H.E. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang. The general public is invited.
Later that day at 4:00 PM, the Ministry of Defence will hold an official unveiling of a memorial cenotaph. Attendance is by invitation.
The activities will conclude on Saturday, August 7, with the ‘Service to the Soul’ Nationwide Blood Donation Drive. The humanitarian drive aims to fill blood banks and save lives in memory of those who died. Donations will take place at all District, Regional and Teaching Hospitals nationwide, at the 37 Military Hospital, and other locations to be announced.
Government is calling on all Ghanaians to take part in the blood donation exercise “as an appropriate and life-saving way to pay tribute to our fallen heroes.”
“The loss of these eight noble individuals remains a deeply painful chapter in our nation’s history. However, their spirit of dedication to duty must continue to inspire us as a people,” the statement added.
Government urged citizens to “come together in unity, through prayer and with patriotic devotion” to support the families left behind and keep the memory of the deceased alive. “May the souls of the Departed Eight continue to rest in perfect peace,” the statement noted.
