The Government of the Republic of Ghana has confirmed that eight Ghanaian nationals have lost their lives following a jihadist attack in Titao, a town in northern Burkina Faso, on February 14, 2026.
According to an official update, the victims were members of the Ghana National Tomatoes Traders and Transporters Association who were engaged in lawful trading activities in the area when they were attacked. Seven of them died at the scene, while an eighth victim, who had sustained serious injuries and was receiving medical treatment, later succumbed.
President John Mahama and the Government have expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, conveying “profound commiserations to the families and loved ones of all who have lost their lives.”
The statement strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a “mindless act of terror,” and expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Burkina Faso during what it called a dark moment for the sub-region.
The Government noted that the incident underscores the “urgent need for a new collective approach in pursuing regional security,” a call Ghana reiterated at last month’s High-Level Consultative Conference on Regional Cooperation and Security hosted by President Mahama.
On the President’s instructions and following consultations with medical authorities, the Government has arranged for the immediate air evacuation of all Ghanaian victims from Burkina Faso. The Ghana Air Force is undertaking the medical evacuation, and the victims are expected to arrive in Ghana later today.
Ghana’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso and embassy staff are said to be actively engaged, maintaining direct contact with the injured and coordinating support efforts. The Government also acknowledged the cooperation of Burkina Faso in granting the necessary approvals to facilitate the intervention.
In response to the incident, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued new travel guidelines for high-risk areas within the sub-region. Ghana’s embassies and high commissions in selected jurisdictions have been placed on high consular alert.
The Government is advising Ghanaians planning essential travel to areas of concern to first consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the relevant Ghanaian diplomatic missions for guidance. For citizens already residing in jurisdictions where violent extremist attacks have been recorded, authorities recommend restricting movement, maintaining regular communication with Ghana’s embassies, and ensuring that identification documents remain readily accessible to expedite consular assistance if needed.
Reassuring the public, the Government stated that it is closely monitoring developments and remains in contact with relevant authorities to safeguard Ghanaian citizens abroad.
“The safety, security, and well-being of Ghanaians remain our utmost priority,” the statement emphasised, adding that further updates will be provided as necessary.
