The Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), in collaboration with the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) and JoyFM, on Friday, August 15, provided thousands of coconuts, cut fruits and fruit juice to mourners gathered at the Black Star Square for the state funeral of the eight fallen heroes who perished in the August 6 military helicopter crash.

The gesture, supported by the Coconut Federation and fruit processor Blue Skies, was aimed at honouring the memory of the departed while giving mourners a taste of Ghana’s rich agricultural produce.

According to FAGE, the initiative was both a mark of solidarity with the nation as it bid farewell to the late officials and service members, and an opportunity to showcase the quality of Ghanaian commodities.

“We wanted to support the state as it sent our gallant men home and, at the same time, share the fruits of Ghana with the public,” FAGE noted in a post, extending special thanks to all partners and volunteers who made the effort possible.

The state funeral drew thousands of Ghanaians, including President John Dramani Mahama, senior government officials, military chiefs, and families of the deceased, who were laid to rest with full national honours.

Defence Minister, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, was among eight Ghanaians who lost their lives in the helicopter crash, alongside Minister for Environment Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed; and crew members Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.