The Government of Ghana has held a National Inter-Faith Memorial Service to commemorate the eight victims of the Z-9 Helicopter crash at the Kofi Ohene Konadu Auditorium of the University of Professional Studies, Accra.

The memorial service formed part of activities marking the first anniversary of the tragic incident and served as a moment of reflection on the dedicated service and sacrifices of the eight fallen national heroes.

The President of the Republic of Ghana and Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, HE John Dramani Mahama, who was the Special Guest of Honour, described the helicopter crash as one of the tragedies that deeply shook the conscience of the nation.

Addressing the gathering, President Mahama noted that while some tragedies are confined to families and communities, others resonate across an entire nation, citing the Z-9 Helicopter crash as one such event.

“The silence that followed the announcement of the tragedy was unlike any other,” he said. “It was a silence filled with disbelief and countless unanswered questions. It was the silence of parents who lost their children, spouses who lost their life partners, children who would never again hear the reassuring voices of their fathers, colleagues who lost trusted friends and comrades, and a nation struggling to comprehend such a painful loss.”

The President explained that the memorial service was not intended to reopen old wounds but to give meaning to the immense sacrifice of the deceased.

“Remembrance is the obligation of every grateful nation,” he stated. “A country that forgets those who serve it gradually forgets the values upon which it is built. Memory is not simply about looking back; it is an expression of national character and values. It affirms that sacrifice matters, that service is honoured, and that lives dedicated to the nation will never fade into the shadows of history.”

President Mahama noted that although the eight fallen heroes came from diverse professional backgrounds and had different aspirations and personal stories, they were united by a common purpose, that is the call to serve God and country.

He stressed the need for society to appreciate public servants not only after their passing but throughout their years of service, acknowledging those who work diligently, often without recognition, because they believe in a cause greater than themselves.

The President further observed that every nation experiences moments that test not only its institutions but also its humanity. He said the true measure of a nation is not whether tragedy occurs, as every country faces difficult moments, but how it responds with compassion, wisdom and renewed commitment to its people.

He emphasised that beyond political affiliations, ethnic backgrounds and religious beliefs, Ghanaians remain one people united by their shared humanity.

“That unity is perhaps the greatest tribute we can offer to those we have lost,” he remarked.

President Mahama said the memory of the victims places a solemn responsibility on the nation to build stronger institutions, strengthen safety standards where necessary, invest in the welfare of personnel and ensure that lessons from the tragedy are never forgotten.

“The greatest memorial we can build is not one made of stone or bronze, but one built through responsible leadership, fairness, improved safety standards, and an unwavering commitment to protecting those who dedicate their lives to the service of Ghana,” he said.

The President concluded by conveying the deepest condolences of the Government and the people of Ghana to the bereaved families, assuring them that the nation continues to mourn with them and remains grateful for the sacrifices made by their loved ones.

Present at the Occasion were; the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, HE Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Ministers of State, Senior Government Officials, Heads of Security Services, Clergy, Diplomatic Corp and the general public.