The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf is leading condolences from Africa after the death of senior government officials in a helicopter crash in Ghana on Wednesday.
The helicopter crashed in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, which claimed the lives of eight people, including Ghana’s Minister of Defence, Edward Omane Boamah, and Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
Ghana has declared several days of national mourning.
The AUC chairperson conveyed his heartfelt condolences to President John Dramani Mahama, the government and people of Ghana, and the bereaved families of all those who lost their lives in this national tragedy.
He also expresses his solidarity with the Ghana Armed Forces and the ruling National Democratic Congress during this difficult time.
Mr. Youssouf stated, “The African Union stands in full solidarity with Ghana in mourning this profound loss. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.”
Liberian President Joseph Boakai, on behalf of his government and people, expressed profound and extended heartfelt condolences over the irreparable loss. President Boakai prayed that God grant President Mahama and the people of Ghana, especially those affected, strength, courage and fortitude as they endure this period of national mourning.
He then hoped that the resilience and strength that the people of Ghana have always demonstrated during challenging circumstances will be brought to bear during this difficult period.
Gambian President Adama Barrow hoped that Ghanaians will apply fortitude to bear the irreparable loss with patience.
I join the people of #Ghana during these difficult moments to mourn their untimely death and pray that their souls rest in peace” he said.
Writing on his Facebook page President William Ruto of Kenya said: ”We stand in solidarity with Ghana in mourning this profound loss and offer our thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow”.
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio said his country’s thoughts are with Ghanaians as they come to terms with the tragedy.
WN/as/APA