President John Mahama has called on Ghanaians to turn the grief over the August 6 military helicopter tragedy into a renewed drive for national progress.

Speaking at the Evening of Reflections and Memorial at the Forecourt of the State House, he reflected on the deep personal loss he feels for the eight victims.

He noted that they were more than just names in news reports; they were dedicated public servants committed to Ghana’s success.

He urged the country to mourn together while also working collectively to heal, stressing that the tragedy should serve as a reminder of the significant work still needed to advance the nation.

President Mahama said the fallen leaders would not have wanted the country to be paralysed by sorrow, but rather inspired to push forward for a stronger, more prosperous Ghana.

The solemn ceremony formed part of the official three-day national mourning period declared by the President to honour the victims: Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed, former Obuasi East NDC Parliamentary Candidate Samuel Aboagye, NDC Vice Chairman and former Kumasi Mayor Dr. Samuel Sarpong, and three Ghana Air Force crew members — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Mane-Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

The victims were aboard a Ghana Armed Forces Z-9 helicopter on a national assignment to Obuasi when it crashed in the Adansi-Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region. Their remains have since been flown to South Africa for DNA testing due to the extent of burns suffered.

Friday’s memorial, which included interfaith prayers and tributes from family, government officials, and state institutions, precedes a state funeral scheduled for August 15 at Black Star Square.