The Government of Ghana has confirmed that a recent jihadist attack in Titao, northern Burkina Faso, has claimed the lives of eight Ghanaian nationals.
The attack, which occurred on February 14, initially killed seven members of the Ghana National Tomatoes Traders and Transporters Association who were engaged in lawful trading activities. A fourth injured compatriot later succumbed to injuries, bringing the death toll to eight.
President John Mahama and the Government of Ghana have expressed profound condolences to the families of the victims. “We convey our deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones of all who have lost their lives in this senseless act of terror. Ghana stands in solidarity with the people and Government of Burkina Faso in this dark hour,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a press release.
The Government strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “mindless” and “despicable,” and called for a renewed collective approach to regional security. “This tragedy reminds us of the urgent need to strengthen security cooperation in the sub-region, an issue Ghana has consistently raised, including at last month’s High-Level Consultative Conference on Regional Cooperation and Security,” the statement added.
In response, President Mahama has directed the immediate medical evacuation of all Ghanaian victims in Burkina Faso. The Ghana Air Force is carrying out the medevac, with the victims expected to arrive in Ghana later today. Ghana’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso and embassy staff are maintaining direct contact with the injured and coordinating the Government’s intervention.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also issued new guidelines for Ghanaians traveling to high-risk areas in the sub-region. Citizens planning essential travel are urged to first contact the Ministry or relevant embassies for guidance.
Those already residing in high-risk jurisdictions are advised to restrict movement, maintain regular communication with embassies, and ensure identification documents are readily accessible for consular assistance.
The Ministry emphasized: “The safety, security, and well-being of Ghanaians remain our utmost priority. We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as necessary.”
