The Scout and Guide Fellowship of Ghana (SGF-Gh) has joined the nation in mourning the tragic helicopter crash involving a Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) helicopter that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including two sitting Ministers of State.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its President, the association expressed its “deepest sorrow and heartfelt condolences” following the tragic military helicopter crash, which occurred Wednesday morning in the Adansi area of the Ashanti Region.

The Z-9 aircraft was en route from Accra to Obuasi when it went down, killing all eight people on board, according to official reports.

The deceased have been named as Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister for Defense; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation; Alhaji Muniru Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator; Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC); Mr. Samuel Aboagye, a government technical advisor; as well as three military personnel: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, the pilot; Flight Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, the co-pilot; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, the flight technician.

Calling the tragedy a “solemn reminder of the selfless commitment of those who serve our country,” the SGF-Gh underscored the national significance of the loss, highlighting the dedication and service of the fallen leaders and military officers.

The Fellowship noted that the deaths represent not only a blow to national governance and security but also a deep wound to the spirit of public service and civic responsibility.

“We offer our prayers for strength, healing, and unity in the face of this painful loss,” said Andrew Botchwey, National President of SGF-Gh. “We also support all ongoing investigations to uncover the cause of this tragic incident.”

The statement extended sympathies to the bereaved families, the Government of Ghana, the Ghana Armed Forces, and all institutions affected by what it described as a national tragedy. SGF-Gh concluded with a call for the preservation of the legacies of the departed, emphasizing leadership based on “service, sacrifice, and nation-building.”