President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to recognise and appreciate the sacrifices of public servants during their lifetime rather than waiting until tragedy strikes before celebrating their contributions.
Speaking at the National Inter-Faith Memorial Service in Accra on Thursday, August 6, to commemorate one year since the military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight state officials and military personnel, President Mahama said many public servants dedicate themselves to national service under difficult conditions with little public recognition.
According to the President, public officials often spend long periods away from their families, travel extensively and make difficult decisions under pressure because of their commitment to Ghana’s development.
“Much of their work goes unnoticed. They travel long distances. They spend countless hours away from their families. They endure difficult conditions. They make decisions under pressure. They accept risks because they believe that Ghana’s progress is worth every effort,” he said.
President Mahama noted that the invaluable contributions of public servants are too often acknowledged only after unfortunate incidents.
“And too often we celebrate such service only after tragedy strikes,” he added.
He urged Ghanaians to cultivate a culture of recognising dedication and sacrifice as public servants carry out their responsibilities every day.
“Today we must resolve to appreciate public service even as it is performed daily. To appreciate those who labour faithfully, often without recognition, because they believe in something that is greater than themselves,” the President said.
Addressing the families of those who died in the helicopter crash, President Mahama extended the condolences of the government and the people of Ghana.
“To the bereaved families, let me once again convey the deepest condolences of the government and people of Ghana,” he said.
He acknowledged that no speech or memorial ceremony could fully ease the grief of losing loved ones.
“I know that no speech can erase your pain,” he stated.
The August 6, 2025 military helicopter crash claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Minister for Environment, Science and Technology Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, senior security officials and Ghana Air Force personnel who were travelling on official duty in connection with efforts to combat illegal mining.
The memorial service brought together government officials, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, security personnel and relatives of the deceased to honour their lives, service and sacrifice to the nation.
