Government Announces GHC150,000 Support Package for El-Wak Stampede Victims’ Families

Government has offered a comprehensive relief package to families affected by last month’s tragic stampede at the El-Wak Stadium, which claimed six lives during the Ghana Armed Forces 2025/2026 recruitment exercise.

Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi, after meeting the bereaved families at the National Square on December 1, confirmed that each family will receive GHC150,000. The assistance comprises GHC50,000 for funeral arrangements and an additional GHC100,000 as compensation.

Mr. Genfi disclosed that the siblings of the deceased will receive priority consideration in the ongoing military recruitment, describing it as part of government’s effort to provide long-term support.

He added that the Defence Ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection to deliver further help, including psychosocial counselling for affected relatives.

President John Dramani Mahama, he said, has extended his “deep condolences” and assured the families that government remains committed to easing their burden.

The fatal incident occurred on November 12 when a sudden rush of applicants attempting to enter the stadium breached security controls, leading to a deadly stampede that also left several people injured.

In a statement issued after the event, the Ghana Armed Forces expressed sympathy, saying it “extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a swift recovery to those injured.”