NYA postpones 2025 Youth Festival following helicopter crash tragedy

The National Youth Authority (NYA) has announced the postponement of all activities related to the 2025 National Youth Festival in honour of the eight Ghanaians who tragically lost their lives in Wednesday’s military helicopter crash in the Adanse Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region.

The crash, which occurred en route to Obuasi, claimed the lives of high-ranking government officials and military personnel, sparking a nationwide outpouring of grief and triggering a three-day national mourning period.

In a statement dated Thursday, August 7, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NYA, Osman A. Ayariga, expressed the Authority’s deep sorrow over the incident and emphasised the need for national solidarity during this trying time.

“This devastating incident has left our nation in mourning, and our hearts are heavy with grief,” the statement read.

“In solidarity with the bereaved families, the Government, and all Ghanaians, the NYA announces with profound regret the postponement of all activities slated for the National Youth Festival 2025.”

The festival, themed “Igniting Potential; Inspiring Change,” was expected to engage thousands of young people across the country in various developmental and celebratory programmes.

The NYA assured the public that new dates for the Youth Month events will be announced in due course, following consultations with relevant stakeholders.

Meanwhile, the Authority is urging young people and partners to use this period to reflect on the shared national loss and draw strength from unity.

“Let us draw strength from our shared values of resilience and unity as we navigate this difficult time together,” the statement concluded.

The NYA reaffirmed its commitment to empowering the youth and contributing meaningfully to Ghana’s development, even in moments of national sorrow.