BY Daniel Bampoe
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has commiserated with the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) following the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including three military personnel.
A delegation from the GJA, led by its President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, visited the Burma Camp headquarters of the GAF on Wednesday, August 13, to offer condolences and show solidarity in the wake of the national tragedy.
The visit was also to enable the Association to formally sign the book of condolence opened in honour of the deceased.
Speaking during the meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, the GJA President described the crash as “a dark day in Ghana’s history” and emphasised the need for the nation to stand united in grief.
“We are here as journalists, but more importantly as fellow Ghanaians, to mourn with the Ghana Armed Forces and the bereaved families,” Dwumfour stated.
He expressed the Association’s deep sorrow, saying, “This tragic loss has touched every part of our nation. These were not just public figures; they were men of service, dedication, and sacrifice. Ghana has indeed lost some of her finest.”
Dwumfour further highlighted the importance of maintaining dignity and respect in media reportage during moments of national tragedy.
“As journalists, we have a duty to report truthfully and respectfully, especially in times like these. We must resist the temptation to sensationalise grief. Instead, we should help the country heal,” he stressed.
He assured the military of the Association’s readiness to collaborate in preserving the honour of the fallen, noting, “The Ghana Journalists Association stands ready to work with the Armed Forces to ensure that the memory of these gallant men is preserved for generations to come.”
Concluding his remarks, the GJA President urged Ghanaians to reflect on the sacrifices made by the deceased.
“Let us not only mourn but also remember the causes for which they stood. This tragedy is a reminder that service to the nation often comes at the highest cost,” he said before signing the condolence book.
The Chief of Defence Staff, in response, thanked the GJA for its gesture and assured the public that investigations into the cause of the crash were underway, with the helicopter’s black box already retrieved for examination.
The state funeral for the victims was held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra, following a three-day national mourning period declared by the government.
