The Ghana Chamber of Mines has joined the nation in mourning the tragic deaths of eight distinguished Ghanaians who perished in Wednesday’s military helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region, describing the incident as a profound national loss.
In a solemn statement, the Chamber expressed deep shock and sorrow over the passing of:
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane-Boamah, Minister for Defence
Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation
Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator and former Minister for Agriculture
Dr. Samuel Sarpong, Vice Chair of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)
Mr. Samuel Aboagye, Former Parliamentary Candidate
Squadron Leader Peter Anala
Flying Officer Twum Ampadu
Sergeant Ernest Addo
On behalf of its president and members across the mining industry, the chamber extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the government, and the people of Ghana.
Their untimely demise represents a significant loss to Ghana. Each one of them was a committed public servant who made invaluable contributions to national development, paying the ultimate price in the line of duty,” the statement read.
The Chamber highlighted its collaborative work with the Defence and Environment Ministries, praising the late Dr. Omane-Boamah and Dr. Murtala Mohammed for their unwavering support in the fight against illegal mining.
The Chamber had the honor of working closely with both honorable ministers in our collective efforts to address the challenges posed by illegal mining. Their support was pivotal in safeguarding mining concessions, protecting water bodies, and enhancing the security of mining operations across the country.”
According to the Chamber, their leadership formed the backbone of Ghana’s multi-stakeholder approach to sustainable mining and environmental protection. Their absence, it said, would be “profoundly felt not only by the institutions they led but by all stakeholders dedicated to promoting responsible mining in Ghana.”
The Chamber pledged to honor their legacy by continuing the shared mission of environmental stewardship and community protection.
May the ultimate sacrifice of these eight gallant Ghanaians lead to an end to illegal and irresponsible mining,” the Chamber concluded.
The helicopter crash has plunged the nation into mourning, with a three-day national observance declared and flags flying at half-mast. The government has also formed a high-level committee to oversee funeral and memorial arrangements.
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