President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to preserve the memory of the eight public servants who lost their lives in the Obuasi helicopter crash, describing their sacrifice as a lasting symbol of patriotism, duty and national service.
Speaking at a one-year memorial service held in honour of the victims, President Mahama said the anniversary was not only a time to mourn but also an opportunity for the nation to reflect on the values of sacrifice, service and unity.
“Today is one of those days when a nation deliberately slows its pace not because history demands it, but because memory does,” the President said.
He recalled the shock that gripped the country when news broke of the fatal helicopter accident, saying the tragedy left families, colleagues and the entire nation struggling to comprehend the painful loss.
“Some tragedies touch the conscience of an entire nation. This was one such tragedy,” he stated, adding that the silence that followed the announcement was filled with grief, disbelief and unanswered questions.
President Mahama said the memorial service was an affirmation that Ghana would never forget those who dedicated their lives to serving the nation.
“A country that forgets those who served it slowly forgets the values on which it is built,” he said. “Remembrance is an obligation for every grateful nation.”
The President noted that the eight deceased came from different backgrounds and professions but were united by a common commitment to serve God and country. He observed that none of them had anticipated that the mission would become their final journey, describing their deaths as a reminder of the fragility of life and the sacredness of public service.
He urged Ghanaians to appreciate the sacrifices made daily by public servants, many of whom work under difficult conditions and away from their families without public recognition.
“Too often we celebrate such service only after tragedy strikes. Today we must resolve to appreciate public service even as it is performed daily,” he said.
Addressing the bereaved families, President Mahama extended the condolences of the Government and the people of Ghana, acknowledging that no words could erase their pain or replace the loved ones they had lost.
“I know that no speech can erase your pain. Your loved ones did not die alone. They belonged to all of Ghana, and Ghana will continue to remember them,” he assured.
The President also praised the solidarity shown by Ghanaians over the past year, noting that citizens from different religious, ethnic and political backgrounds had united in support of the grieving families.
He said such acts of compassion demonstrated that despite the country’s differences, Ghanaians remained united by a shared humanity.
Reflecting on the responsibilities of leadership, President Mahama stressed that the tragedy reinforced the need for stronger institutions, improved aviation safety standards and greater investment in the welfare of personnel serving the nation.
“The greatest memorial we can build is not one made of stone or bronze. It is one built through responsible leadership, improved systems and an unwavering commitment to protecting those who dedicate their lives to Ghana,” he said.
The President further called on all Ghanaians to honour the memory of the deceased by serving the country with integrity, placing national interest above personal gain and treating one another with greater kindness and respect.
He concluded by expressing hope that the memory of the eight fallen heroes would continue to inspire future generations to serve Ghana with dedication and selflessness.
“May their memory continue to inspire us, may their sacrifice strengthen our resolve to build a better nation, and may the Almighty God grant them eternal rest,” President Mahama prayed.
The memorial service brought together government officials, members of the security services, religious leaders, traditional authorities, families of the deceased and members of the public to commemorate the first anniversary of the Obuasi helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight public servants in the line of duty.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
