Former Asante Kotoko Board Chairman Herbert Mensah is leading the 25th commemoration of the May 9 Disaster. This event marks 25 years since the deadliest stadium disaster in Africa. It occurred on May 9, 2001, at the Accra Sports Stadium. 126 people died in a stampede. This tragedy happened during a football match. The match was between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko.
The observance is taking place in Kumasi this week. Mensah expects 100 to 200 people to travel from Accra. They will join the remembrance activities. The commemoration began with prayers at a mosque. The Chief Imam Osman Nuhu Sharubutu attended. Traditional leaders and public figures were also present. A major gathering is scheduled for Saturday. Large crowds are anticipated.
This disaster remains a significant event in Ghana's recent history. It raises persistent questions about accountability. Investigations into the cause of the stampede are still a concern. Calls for justice and reforms in stadium safety continue. These issues are central to discussions every year. Herbert Mensah described the process as ongoing. He stated there is a lot of interest. This interest spans the 25-year period. He questioned Ghana's position on handling such events. He also asked about the fairness of investigations. He wondered if justice was served. He also queried the impact of infrastructure changes.
Mensah mentioned ongoing support for affected families. He spoke of widows and children living with the tragedy's shadow. Some young adults now seek assistance. They are navigating life without parents lost in 2001. He shared the story of Rani in Accra. She is a Hearts of Oak supporter. She lost her husband. Rani was a teenager then. Her son never met his father. He recently graduated. They are seeking assistance. Mensah hopes to provide support.
The commemoration has also spurred charitable work. Mensah is secretary for the Shen Yang and Shen Yuet Children’s Heart Foundation. This foundation helps children with heart conditions. It has funded over 110 life-saving surgeries. These surgeries occurred at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. This work has taken place over the past 15 months. It offers hope to many families. Global attention is also growing. The BBC is producing a documentary. This documentary focuses on the disaster.