Final funeral rites for brothers killed in Tema microlight crash to be held at State House forecourt

The final funeral rites for Captain Frank Amoanyi Donkor and his brother, Elijah Ofori Donkor, who lost their lives in a microlight aircraft crash in Tema, will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra.

The two brothers perished on March 16, 2026, in an accident at Tema Community 1, an incident that has since prompted an investigation by aviation authorities. Exactly one week after the tragedy, the Wettey and Donkor families issued a statement expressing profound grief while acknowledging an outpouring of national support.

According to the funeral arrangements, the mortal remains of the deceased will be laid in state from 6:00 am to 8:00 am, followed immediately by the burial service. The decision to hold the service at the State House Forecourt underscores the national significance of the loss and the high-level support extended to the bereaved families.

The families expressed their sincere gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama, who dispatched a delegation led by Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, to commiserate with them. They also acknowledged the Chief of Staff’s role in approving the use of the State House Forecourt for the service.

“We are equally grateful to the Chief of Staff for approving the funeral service to be held at the Forecourt of the State House,” the statement, signed by Albert Kwabena Dwumfour on behalf of the families, read.

The families further extended appreciation to the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, for a personal visit to commiserate during their difficult time. Recognition was also given to the New Patriotic Party Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for his support and for dispatching a high-powered delegation led by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and Dr. Bawumia’s Campaign Manager, Fredrick Opare Ansah.

Describing the late brothers as “bright lights” full of promise, warmth, and life, the families noted their struggle to come to terms with the sudden departure of their loved ones. However, they stated that the overwhelming love, prayers, and support from Ghanaians across the country had provided strength in their sorrow.

“Our hearts are heavy, but we are sustained by the kindness of the nation,” the statement conveyed.

The families also commended state agencies that responded to the tragedy, including the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority, the Ghana National Fire Service, and the Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation and Prevention Bureau (AIB Ghana), lauding their swift response and professionalism in handling the aftermath of the crash.