By Daniel Bampoe
President John Dramani Mahama has honoured 13 residents of Sikaman-Brofoyedu in the Adansi Akrofrom District for their bravery in recovering the bodies of eight high-ranking government officials who perished in the military helicopter crash of August 6, 2025.
The crash, which occurred in the Dampia Range Forest Reserve, sent shockwaves across the nation after claiming the lives of senior ministers, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Minister for Environment, Science and Technology Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed.
The officials were reportedly on an official assignment at the time of the accident
The tragedy was described as one of the darkest moments in recent political history, as the victims were key figures in President Mahama’s administration.
Their sudden loss raised questions about flight safety protocols and the state of Ghana’s military aviation.
While investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, immediate attention turned to the role played by local residents who braved difficult terrain in the forest to locate and retrieve the bodies before security agencies could arrive.
Government’s Appreciation
On Wednesday, August 27, National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah led a government delegation to Sikaman-Brofoyedu to convey the President’s gratitude.
“President has asked me to represent him and thank the residents who helped us recover the bodies of our eight men. We have a plaque for all of you in honour of what you did,” Nketiah told the gathering.
He announced a GHS100,000 cash package for the 13 rescuers, alongside GHS20,000 for the Adansi Traditional Council to support community rites related to the tragedy.
Beyond Money
In addition to the financial support, the government pledged to provide employment opportunities for all 13 individuals who took part in the recovery efforts, with placements tailored to their skills and capacities.
“Whatever will be left behind let your DCEs and party chairmen know so we clear those,” Nketiah said, stressing that the government would not overlook the community’s sacrifice.
He further announced President Mahama’s commitment to improving local infrastructure, beginning with rehabilitation of the road network linking Sikaman-Brofoyedu to other parts of the Adansi district.
Community Seen As National Heroes
For many Ghanaians, the support package represents a symbolic recognition of ordinary citizens who stepped in at a moment of national crisis. With limited resources and under distressing conditions, the Sikaman-Brofoyedu residents managed to ensure a dignified recovery of the fallen officials.
The gesture is also being interpreted as part of the President’s effort to reassure communities in remote areas that their contributions to the nation are valued, especially in moments of tragedy.
