Tuesday, 17 February

8 Ghanaians killed in terrorist attack in Burkina Faso; Gov't issues new travel guidelines

News
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Ablakwa

The Government of Ghana has confirmed that eight Ghanaian nationals have died following a jihadist attack on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in Titao, located in the northern province of Burkina Faso.

The victims were members of the Ghana National Tomatoes Traders and Transporters Association, engaged in lawful trading activities at the time of the attack.

Initially, seven traders were killed on the spot.

A fourth compatriot, who had sustained serious injuries and was receiving medical care, later succumbed to their injuries, bringing the total death toll to eight.

President John Mahama and the Government of Ghana have extended their deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased, while condemning the attack in the strongest terms.

“This despicable act of terror underscores the urgent need for a new collective approach to regional security,” the statement read, referencing Ghana’s call for coordinated security efforts reiterated at last month’s High-Level Consultative Conference on Regional Cooperation and Security.

In response to the incident, the government has arranged for the medical evacuation of all Ghanaian victims in Burkina Faso via the Ghana Air Force.

Ghana’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso and embassy staff are maintaining direct contact with the injured and coordinating with local authorities, who have fully cooperated with evacuation efforts.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also issued new travel guidelines for Ghanaians visiting high-risk areas within the sub-region.

Citizens intending to travel to such territories are advised to first consult Ghanaian embassies or the ministry for guidance.

For Ghanaians already residing in high-risk areas, authorities recommend restricting movement, maintaining regular contact with embassies, and ensuring identification documents are readily accessible to facilitate emergency consular assistance.

Government emphasised that the safety, security, and well-being of Ghanaians remain a top priority and urged citizens in distress or requiring urgent consular support to reach the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via the following contacts:

- Telephone: +233 240 913 284 | +233 240 793 072 | +233 204 552 750
- Email: ipab@mia.gov.gh consular@mfa.gov.gh

Government assured that it continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as necessary.

Source: classfmonline.com