GAF dismisses claims of abandoning Baba Yara stampede victim, details GH¢113,800 welfare support

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has firmly refuted claims that it has abandoned Sandra Baafi Boateng, the 25-year-old survivor of the stampede tragedy at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. In a comprehensive statement, the military outlined the extensive support provided to Sandra and her family since the incident on November 12, 2025.

The GAF disclosed that it had incurred approximately GH¢113,800 in Sandra's medical care, disbursed GH¢30,000 in financial aid to her family, and even secured a recruitment opportunity for her sister, Mercy Bioh, into the Ghana Army. Sandra suffered a severe head injury during the stampede and was admitted to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for treatment from November 12, 2025, to February 26, 2026.

Following Sandra's condition improvement, her family requested a transfer to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra for specialized care. The military promptly arranged an air medical evacuation, transporting Sandra from Kumasi to Accra on February 26, 2026. Although her condition remained largely unchanged, she received additional services at the 37 Military Hospital, including dietetic care, palliative support, and physiotherapy.

Upon her discharge from the 37 Military Hospital on October 28, 2026, Sandra's family requested her return to Kumasi. The military assured them that her medical needs would continue to be addressed through the 4th Military Hospital (4 MRS) in Kumasi until her complete recovery. To further support Sandra's family, the GAF presented GH¢30,000 in financial assistance and an air bed to her mother, along with a wheelchair, though the mother declined the latter as they already possessed one.