The Government of Ghana has requested technical assistance from the United States (U.S.) to help conduct a transparent and credible investigation into the recent helicopter crash that claimed the lives of senior public officers.
Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed the development on Thursday after signing the book of condolence in Accra, noting that President John Dramani Mahama had directed that independent experts be engaged to ensure the probe met the highest international standards.
“The Americans have considerable expertise in these matters, and the indication we have received is that they are very much willing to assist,” Ablakwa said. “We think it is important to bring in independent experts so that the outcome of the investigations will be acceptable to all and there will be confidence in the process. Nobody has anything to hide.”
U.S. team expected soon
According to the Minister, a formal note had been sent to Washington, and the U.S. government had confirmed readiness to support Ghana. The American technical team is expected to arrive soon to join local investigators.
The crash involved a Chinese-made Z-9 helicopter and has generated intense public debate about its cause.
In keeping with aviation safety protocols, the Chinese manufacturers have been contacted to analyse the aircraft’s black box.
“Indeed, the briefing we have received from the Chief of Defence Staff is that there is a standing protocol in such matters, and the manufacturers are standing by,” Ablakwa explained.
“However, in the President’s wisdom, nothing should proceed without independent experts being involved. This way, we can avoid any suspicions of conflict of interest or perceptions of a cover-up.”
Transparency and public confidence
Ablakwa, who also sits on the Armed Forces Council and the National Security Council, said the President’s approach was designed to ensure full public trust in the outcome. He pledged that the investigative process would be as open as possible, with periodic public updates once the experts begin work, subject to national security considerations.
“I can give the fullest assurance that there will be no attempt to conceal anything,” he stressed. “The Ghanaian people will be kept in the loop from the time the experts arrive to the conclusion of the investigations.”
The Minister urged civil society organisations and analysts concerned about delays to note that the probe had not begun because the arrival of the U.S. experts was pending. Once they are on the ground, the process will move forward without delay.
Honouring fallen heroes
Describing the crash as an unprecedented tragedy in Ghana’s history, Ablakwa said the investigation was not only about determining technical causes but also about preserving public trust and honouring the memory of those who died in the line of duty.
“These were not just colleagues; they were the finest public servants, professionals with deep patriotism and dedication,” he said. “The least we can do is ensure their sacrifice is not in vain by finding the truth and learning the lessons that will prevent such tragedies in the future.”
He added that President Mahama had reiterated to Cabinet that there would be “utmost transparency” in handling the matter—a position welcomed by Ghana’s international partners.
Crackdown on illegal mining
Beyond the crash investigation, Ablakwa said the tragedy had strengthened the government’s determination to combat illegal mining, which he described as a broader existential threat to the country.
The President, he said, intended to launch a “relentless and ruthless campaign” against the menace, which continues to endanger lives, pollute water bodies, and damage the environment.
Partnership with the United States
Ablakwa expressed gratitude to the U.S. for agreeing to assist Ghana at what he called “a very tragic and devastating period,” noting that the gesture reflected the depth of bilateral ties between the two nations.
“This is a difficult moment for our nation, but it is also a moment that has revealed the friends who stand with us,” he said. “We are grateful for the readiness of the U.S. to deploy their expertise to help us seek closure and ensure justice for the fallen.”
