Accra, Ghana — The country is in grief due to the tragic accident that claimed the life of a young and vibrant female soldier, Private First Class Afia Mensah, who lost her life along the Eastern Region of Ghana during a routine exercise. The 24-year-old was identified to be one of the soldiers undergoing necessary training in preparation for peacekeeping duties in flashpoint areas at the time of the accident.
The incident, eyewitnesses said, occurred in the early hours of last Saturday morning when the military vehicle the soldiers were traveling in overturned. Some soldiers sustained serious injuries in the process, with one of the casualties being Afia, who later passed away due to fatal injuries. She was rushed to the hospital and received medical attention but later passed away shortly after.
The fall of Afia has left her family, friends, and comrades of the army in a state of utter dismay. "She was not only a soldier but an emblem of hope and strength," said her commanding officer, Colonel Kwame Adjei. "Her commitment to service and positive spirit inspired everyone around her." Afia joined the Ghana Armed Forces two years ago, driven by the zeal to serve and be committed to peacekeeping missions in countries plagued by war.
With the news of her death spreading, the social media sites flooded with various forms of tributes and condolences. Friends described her as a kind-hearted fellow who was always striving to help others out, many times going an extra mile. "She had big dreams and worked hard in achieving them. We will miss her so much," said the friend in grief.
A wreath-laying and memorial service are expected to take place in the coming week at the military barracks in Accra, which will be attended by immediate family members, colleagues, and the general public. It said the military promised a thorough investigation into the accident amid its commitment to the safety and welfare of its personnel.
The death of Afia has rekindled debates on female soldiers' sufferings in the Ghanaian Army and the need to address better safety and psychosocial support. As the country remains in mourning, the late Afia Mensah is remembered as one of those fearless soldiers who paid the ultimate price for their nation.
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