Deputy Defence Minister Ernest Brogya Genfi has announced a GHS150,000 relief package for each of the six families who lost relatives in the tragic El-Wak Stadium stampede.

Meeting the bereaved families at the National Square on December 1, Mr Genfi expressed government’s condolences and outlined the support to be provided: each family will receive GHS50,000 to cover funeral expenses and GHS100,000 as compensation.

He assured the families that senior government officials would continue to stand with them through the difficult period. He also reiterated that siblings of the deceased will be given priority in the ongoing Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) recruitment exercise as part of the support measures.

Mr Genfi further disclosed that the defence ministry was working with the ministry of gender, children and social protection to deliver additional assistance, including psychosocial support and welfare programmes.

He added that President John Dramani Mahama had personally expressed sympathy and pledged full government support for the affected families.

The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, during the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) 2025/2026 recruitment exercise at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra.

At least six people died and several others sustained injuries after a stampede broke out shortly before the start of the screening at around 6:20 AM.

A statement issued by Captain Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director General of Public Relations for the Ghana Armed Forces, said the stampede resulted from an unexpected rush of applicants who breached security barriers and forced their way into the stadium.

“The unfortunate incident led to the death of six potential recruits and many others injured,” the release noted. “The injured are currently receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital.”

“The Ghana Armed Forces has assured the public that medical teams are working diligently to stabilise the injured and that arrangements are being made to notify the families of the deceased.

“The Ghana Armed Forces extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a swift recovery to those injured. Further updates will be communicated,” the statement added.