The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released a travel advisory for Ghanaians in light of the recent deadly terrorist attacks in Mali, which have raised security concerns throughout the Sahel region.
Numerous news sources have reported that Mali’s defense minister, Sadio Camara, was killed during a series of coordinated attacks executed across the nation by jihadist militants and separatist factions.
State television confirmed his death several hours later, stating that he succumbed to injuries sustained while confronting the assailants. Reports indicate that the head of the military junta, Gen Assimi Goita, was relocated to a secure location after his residence was targeted.
Further north, Russian mercenaries contracted by Mali’s military have agreed to withdraw from Kidal following two days of clashes, according to the separatist group Azawad Liberation Front (FLA).
In a statement issued on Monday, the Government of Ghana expressed profound concern regarding the coordinated attacks that occurred on April 25 against several military installations in Mali, including those in the capital, Bamako.
The assaults reportedly led to numerous casualties, including high-ranking military officials, as well as injuries among both soldiers and civilians.
Ghana extended its condolences to the government and citizens of Mali, characterizing the incident as a tragic occurrence and wishing a swift recovery to the injured.
“Violent extremism must have no place in our world, and we must enhance our collective efforts to eradicate this horror,” the statement emphasized.
As part of immediate precautionary actions, the Ministry has advised Ghanaians residing in or traveling to Mali to exercise utmost caution and to limit all non-essential movements.
Citizens have also been encouraged to maintain regular communication with Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Bamako for updates and assistance.
Additionally, Ghanaian traders and drivers who travel the Mali route have been instructed to halt movement until further notice as authorities strive to stabilize the situation.
The government has stated that it is working in close partnership with Malian authorities and will offer updates to enable the secure return to normal activities once conditions become favorable.
