Seven Ghanaian tomato traders who survived the deadly terrorists attack in Burkina Faso have safely been received in Ghana.
The all-female survivors were escorted by Burkinabe security to the Ghanaian border in Paga where they were received by the Upper East Regional Security Council.
Two others who were critically injured have been airlifted to Accra for further medical attention.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the death toll in the Burkina Faso terrorist attack on Ghanaian traders have increased to eight.
In a press release updating the public on the February 14, 2026 incident, the Ministry stated that the attack, carried out by suspected jihadists, initially claimed the lives of seven members of the Ghana National Tomatoes Traders and Transporters Association who were engaged in lawful trading activities in the area.
According to the statement issued by the Ministry, the eighth victim—who had sustained serious injuries and was receiving medical treatment has since succumbed, bringing the death toll to eight.
President John Dramani Mahama and the Government of Ghana expressed profound condolences to the bereaved families and loved ones of the victims.
The government further strongly condemned what it described as a “mindless act of terror” and conveyed its solidarity with the Government and people of Burkina Faso during what it termed a dark period for the sub-region.
In response to the incident, President Mahama has directed that all Ghanaian victims in Burkina Faso be airlifted to Ghana for medical care and further support. The medical evacuation (medevac) is being carried out by the Ghana Air Force, with the injured expected to arrive in Ghana later today.
Ghana’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso and Embassy staff are said to be actively engaging Burkinabe authorities and maintaining direct contact with affected compatriots.
The Ministry acknowledged the cooperation of the Government of Burkina Faso in granting approvals to facilitate Ghana’s intervention efforts.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has outlined new travel guidelines for Ghanaians travelling to high-risk areas within the sub-region. Ghana’s Embassies and High Commissions in selected jurisdictions have also been placed on high consular alert.
Government reiterated its call for strengthened regional cooperation in addressing growing security threats across West Africa, stressing the need for a coordinated and collective response to terrorism.
The Government advised Ghanaians who intend to embark on essential travels to areas of concern to first contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Ghanaian Embassies accredited to the territories they wish to visit for necessary guidance.
For Ghanaians already living in jurisdictions which are of concern and where violent extremism attacks have been recorded, government has recommend that movement be restricted and that one maintains regular communication with Ghanaian Embassies including providing emergency contacts and ensuring that identification documents are accessible at all times to expedite the provision of consular assistance when the need arises.
The Government assured that it is closely monitoring the situation and remain in contact with relevant authorities to safeguard the welfare of citizens.
“The safety, security, and well-being of Ghanaians remain our utmost priority and further updates would be provided in this matter as and when necessary,” the statement concluded.
Ghanaian citizens in distress or requiring urgent consular assistance have been encouraged to reach out to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs via the following telephone numbers; 0240 913 284, 0240 793 072 and 0204 552 750.
