Copyright citinewsroom
President John Dramani Mahama has extended his condolences to the families of the six individuals who tragically lost their lives during the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) recruitment stampede at El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra. Speaking at the launch of the ‘Nkoto Nkentekete’ programme in Kumasi on Wednesday, November 11, 2025, President Mahama described the incident as unfortunate, noting that all the victims were female. He also wished a speedy recovery to those currently receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital and led attendees at the launch in observing a minute’s silence for the departed. The President called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, emphasising the need for enhanced safety measures during public recruitment exercises and national events. The stampede occurred as thousands of young Ghanaians thronged the stadium in a bid to enlist in the Armed Forces. The large crowd, coupled with intense jostling at entry points, sparked chaos, resulting in multiple injuries and fatalities. The military confirmed six deaths, with 28 people admitted to the 37 Military Hospital for treatment. Of these, five are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), while 12 remain in critical condition. The tragedy unfolded amid an extended recruitment period. Originally scheduled to close on October 31, 2025, the exercise was extended by one week to accommodate applicants who experienced technical difficulties on the recruitment portal.
