Government has announced a nationwide programme of solemn activities to mark the first anniversary of the tragic August 6, 2025 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight national patriots, known as the ‘Departed 8’.

In a press statement released on Thursday, the Minister for Government Communications and Spokesperson to the President, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, called on Ghanaians to unite in honouring the sacrifice, selflessness, and service of the fallen heroes.

According to the statement, the commemorative events, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, alumni groups, and key stakeholders, began on Thursday with the official presentation of the state’s support to the bereaved families.

A memorial lecture honouring the late Dr Edward Omane Boamah will be held on Tuesday, August 4, at the Burma Hall in Burma Camp, Accra. Jointly organised by the Ministry of Defence and the Pope John Senior High School Old Boys Association (POJOBA), the public lecture will begin at 11:00 AM.

The central commemoration will take place on the anniversary date, Thursday, August 6, starting with a National Inter-Faith Memorial Service at the UPSA Auditorium in Madina, Accra, at 8:30 AM. The public non-denominational service will be attended by President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, and high-ranking military and state officials.

Later that afternoon at 4:00 PM, the Ministry of Defence will unveil a memorial cenotaph dedicated to the eight deceased individuals. Attendance for the cenotaph ceremony will be strictly by invitation.

To conclude the anniversary, the government has called for a massive humanitarian response through the ‘Service to the Soul’ Nationwide Blood Donation Drive on Saturday, August 8.

The donation aims to restock blood banks nationwide and save lives in honour of the deceased. It will take place at all District, Regional, and Teaching Hospitals, the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, and other designated health centres.

“The loss of these eight noble individuals remains a deeply painful chapter in our nation’s history. However, their spirit of dedication to duty must continue to inspire us as a people,” Kwakye Ofosu stated.

The government urged civil society organisations, religious bodies, media houses, and the general public to actively participate in the memorial service and donate blood as a practical, life-saving tribute to the fallen patriots.

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