BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The Kingdom of Eswatini has joined the African continent in mourning the tragic deaths of high-ranking Ghanaian government officials and military personnel following a fatal helicopter crash in the central Ashanti Region of Ghana.
On behalf of His Majesty King Mswati III, Her Majesty the Indlovukazi, the Government, and the people of Eswatini, Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has on August 7, 2025 sent a statement of condolence to Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, the Government and the people of Ghana, expressing heartfelt sympathies to the grieving families and the nation at large.
The devastating accident occurred on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, when a Ghana Armed Forces military helicopter crashed during a routine internal security operation near Ejura, a town in the Ashanti Region. According to initial reports from Ghanaian authorities, the aircraft was carrying several senior officials, including two Cabinet Ministers, the Vice Chairman of the ruling party, a National Security Adviser, and military crew members, all of whom were confirmed dead at the scene.
Eyewitnesses reported that the helicopter had been experiencing mechanical difficulties shortly after takeoff, and attempted an emergency landing. Unfortunately, the aircraft lost altitude rapidly and crashed into a forested area, bursting into flames upon impact.
Ghana’s President John Mahama declared three days of national mourning and ordered a full investigation into the crash, which has since shaken the country’s political and security leadership.
In his message of condolence, Dlamini described the incident as a tragic loss not only for Ghana, but for the entire continent.
“On behalf of His Majesty the King, Her Majesty the Indlovukazi, the Government and the people of the Kingdom of Eswatini, we extend our sincerest condolences to President John Mahama, the Government and the People of Ghana, and especially to the families of all the deceased and loved ones,” Dlamini said.
“At this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with all who mourn their loss. May their souls rest in peace, and may their families find comfort in the legacy they leave behind.”
As the investigation continues, African leaders are expressing solidarity with Ghana, recognizing the fallen officials for their service and dedication to the continent’s development and peace.
(Courtesy Pic)
