Burkinabè Injured in Mali Accident to Be Repatriated by Military Flight

OUAGADOUGOU — In a recent development following the tragic accident on February 27 in Mali, it has been announced that the Burkinabè victims receiving care at Sikasso hospital will be repatriated back to Burkina Faso on a military flight. The decision comes after a delegation of four ministers from Burkina Faso visited the injured at the hospital, highlighting the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens abroad.

According to Burkina Information Agency, a Malian source confirmed on Saturday that a military plane from Burkina Faso will transport the wounded individuals back home. This arrangement was made public following the visit of the Burkinabè ministerial delegation to Sikasso, demonstrating the close cooperation between Mali and Burkina Faso in the aftermath of the accident. The delegation included the Minister in charge of Solidarity and Family, Nandy Somé/Diallo; the Minister of Transport and Road Safety, Roland A. Somda; the Minister Delegate in charge of Regional Cooperation, Stella Kabré/Kaboré; and the Minister of Health, Dr. Robert Kargougou.

The accident, which occurred late last month, has already resulted in the loss of 42 lives, including citizens of Burkina Faso. The delegation’s visit to Sikasso not only facilitated the organization of the repatriation process but also allowed the ministers to attend the burial of some of the victims at the Lafiabougou cemetery. During their stay, the officials conveyed the condolences of the Burkinabè government to the families of the victims, offered support to the injured, and extended their gratitude towards the Malian authorities for their prompt mobilization of emergency and health services following the tragic event.

This gesture of repatriation by the Burkinabè government underscores the depth of solidarity and the strong ties between Burkina Faso and Mali, as both nations navigate through the challenges posed by the accident. The repatriation process is expected to commence shortly, as preparations are underway to ensure the safe return of the injured individuals to their homeland.