President John Dramani Mahama has announced the creation of a Specialised Fund to support the education and welfare of the children of the eight victims who perished in the August 6 helicopter crash in the Ashanti Region.
Speaking at the State Funeral on Friday, August 15, President Mahama said the initiative, named “The Fund for the Children of the Victims of August 6,” will cover beneficiaries’ needs from basic education through to university or technical training, as well as healthcare, insurance, clothing, shelter, and other essential living expenses.
“The Fund for the children of the victims of the August 6, as it has officially been named, will cover education from primary through to university or technical training, healthcare including medical insurance, specialised care where required, and welfare support, clothing, shelter, and essential living expenses,” the President noted.
He disclosed that Stanbic Bank has already opened an account with an initial deposit of GH₵500,000, while government will make a seed contribution to operationalise the Fund.
He added that a detailed framework will be published within 30 days to guide its management, with provisions for annual public reporting and avenues for contributions from citizens, corporate bodies, and professional associations.
President Mahama assured the bereaved families that the Fund would be sustained for the long term as a lasting tribute to the sacrifice of the fallen heroes.
“My office will ensure that the Children Support Fund is sustained for the long term with annual public reporting on how it has been used. We’ll create channel for contributions from our citizens, from corporate organizations, professional associates….”
The tragedy claimed the lives of Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Minister of Defence; Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation; NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; former Obuasi East parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed; and three military officers—Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
