The death toll from a jihadist attack in northern Burkina Faso has risen to eight, following the death of another Ghanaian trader who had been receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the assault.
In a statement released on Tuesday, February 17, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the latest victim was among Ghanaians attacked on February 14, 2026, in Titao. Seven members of the Ghana National Tomatoes Traders and Transporters Association were initially killed while conducting legitimate trading activities in the area.
According to the ministry, one of the injured survivors later succumbed to his wounds, bringing the total number of Ghanaian fatalities to eight.
President John Dramani Mahama and the Government of Ghana expressed profound condolences to the families of the victims and strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a senseless act of terror. The government also extended solidarity to the people and authorities of Burkina Faso as they grapple with continued security challenges.
The statement noted that the tragedy highlights the urgent need for strengthened regional cooperation to combat violent extremism—an issue Ghana has consistently raised, including at last month’s High-Level Consultative Conference on Regional Cooperation and Security hosted in Accra.
On the President’s instructions, and following medical assessments, arrangements have been made for the immediate air evacuation of all affected Ghanaian nationals. The Ghana Air Force is conducting the medical evacuation, with injured victims expected to arrive in Ghana later today.
Ghana’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso, together with embassy officials, is on the ground coordinating assistance and maintaining direct contact with affected nationals. The Government of Ghana also acknowledged the cooperation of Burkinabe authorities in facilitating the evacuation and related interventions.
In response to the incident, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a fresh travel advisory for Ghanaians within the sub-region, particularly those planning to travel to high-risk areas. Citizens undertaking essential travel have been urged to consult the ministry or Ghanaian diplomatic missions before departure.
Ghanaians already residing in areas prone to extremist attacks have been advised to limit movement, stay in regular contact with Ghanaian embassies, keep emergency contact details updated, and ensure identification documents are readily accessible to enable swift consular support.
The government assured the public that it continues to monitor developments closely and remains engaged with relevant authorities to protect Ghanaian citizens abroad, reiterating that the safety and well-being of Ghanaians remain a top national priority.
Source: Africa Publicity
