The Upsilon Pi Delta Institute (UPDI) shares in the grief of the nation following the tragic crash of a Ghana Armed Forces helicopter that claimed the lives of eight gallant patriots.
With the national burial and ceremonies now concluded, UPDI extends its deepest condolences to the families of the fallen, to the Ghana Armed Forces, and to the people of Ghana.
These were lives given in service to country, and their sacrifice must not be in vain.
In moving forward, UPDI urges the Government of Ghana, in collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces, to undertake a comprehensive review of military aviation safety procedures.
This should encompass aircraft maintenance standards, flight crew training, operational oversight, and emergency response mechanisms.
The lives of those who serve the nation in uniform must be protected by the highest possible standards of safety.
UPDI also notes with concern the government’s decision to invite the United States of America to assist in investigating the crash. While international technical cooperation may have merit, the sensitive nature of military operations demands that investigations remain independent, impartial, and nationally led.
The Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana), acting in accordance with Annex 13 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention), is best placed to conduct a credible and transparent inquiry that will inspire public confidence.
Most importantly, UPDI wishes to emphasise the urgent need for psychosocial and emotional support for the bereaved families.
Military funerals and state honours, however dignified, cannot erase the trauma of sudden and violent loss. Some families may never fully recover without structured care.
The Government must therefore establish and adequately resource a comprehensive trauma counselling and mental health support programme for the affected families, ensuring continuing assistance well beyond the funeral ceremonies.
Finally, UPDI calls on Parliament, particularly the Defence and Interior Committee, to exercise its constitutional oversight by reviewing the state of military aviation safety and monitoring the implementation of support measures for bereaved families.
This tragedy must serve as a catalyst for lasting institutional reforms that safeguard the lives of service personnel and civilians alike.
As we honour the memory of the fallen, this moment should mark a turning point.
Ghana must strengthen military aviation safety, uphold the emotional and mental wellbeing of bereaved families, and ensure transparent institutional accountability.
Issued this 25th August 2025
Quaranchie Adama-Tettey
Executive Secretary
UPDI
