By Hannah Dadzie and Michael Dewornu
The country is still reeling from the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight national heroes on August 6. At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the diplomatic community has shown solidarity as members of the Diplomatic Corps and international partners gathered to pay their respects and sign the Book of Condolence.
In a quiet and solemn atmosphere, ambassadors and representatives from diplomatic missions across the globe arrived one after another to honour the memories of the distinguished men lost in the crash. The High Commission of Zambia, and the embassies of Equatorial Guinea, South Sudan, Spain, Malaysia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Palestine, Russia, and the United States all took their turn to sign the Book of Condolence. They were joined by international partners, including UNICEF and the International Fertilizer Development Centre. Their messages expressed sympathy with the people of Ghana and the families of those lost in the tragic incident.
The Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Ghana, Sergei Berdnikov, said the people of Russia stand with Ghana in this moment of grief.
“We express our deepest condolences and sorrow for the loss suffered by the Ghanaian people, and Russia mourns with Ghanaians for this tragic event that happened on the 6th of August in the Ashanti Region. We hope that this tragic event will make the Ghanaian nation stronger and more unified,” Ambassador Berdnikov said.
The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ali Ghomshi, also paid tribute to the fallen heroes.
“On behalf of the government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran, I convey and extend condolences to the government and people of Ghana, and to the families of those who perished in the helicopter crash,” he stated.
The Ambassador of Denmark, Jakob Linulf, emphasised the long-standing ties between Ghana and Denmark, pledging support during this time of mourning.
“I want to express my sorrow, grief and sincere condolences to everyone who knew the victims of this tragic incident. I am deeply saddened and hope that all the people of Ghana will regain full strength after this terrible accident. Denmark and Ghana have been friends for many years, and in this moment of sadness, I express my sincere condolences and continued friendship on behalf of the Danish government and people,” he said.
The Chargé d’Affaires of the Czech Republic, Ambassador Madej Denk, noted his country’s close working relationship with the deceased Defence and Environment Ministers.
“Our collaboration with Ghana is very longstanding and we mourn with Ghana in this very difficult moment. We had the honour of working with these two honourable ministers during the recent visit of the President of the Czech Republic, His Excellency Petr Pavel. He interacted personally with Minister Omane Boamah and Minister Murtala, and I bring his personal condolences on this tragic loss. We are deeply sorry for the loss of not only the Cabinet ministers but also all the fallen heroes and crew of the helicopter. We reaffirm our strong partnership with Ghana in this difficult moment,” he said.
The outpouring of condolences from the diplomatic community underscored Ghana’s standing on the international stage and the shared sense of loss felt beyond its borders. As messages of sympathy filled the Book of Condolence, one sentiment resonated throughout: the courage, service and sacrifice of the fallen will be remembered, and their legacy will continue to inspire unity and resilience among the Ghanaian people.
