Amnesty mourns colleagues killed in Burkina Faso attacks

By

Adisa Amanor Wilks

Leila Alaoui (photographer) and Mahamadi Ouédraogo (driver) have died days after being hit in the Ouagadougou attacks.

Leila was shot twice, in the leg and thorax, but was quickly taken to hospital and was initially in a stable condition following an operation. A medical evacuation was being prepared when she suffered a fatal heart attack.

Mahamadi was killed in his car. A father of four, he was a great friend to Amnesty International having accompanied staff and consultants on missions in the country since 2008.

Mahamadi and Leila were parked outside the Cappucino cafe, opposite the Hotel Splendid when the attack occurred.

Last Friday evening, gunmen attacked Ouagadougou’s Splendid Hotel and nearby cafe. Twenty eight people were killed with dozens wounded. This is the most serious terrorist incident in Burkina Faso’s history. Al-Qaeda affiliate, AQIM, has claimed responsibility.

Leila was a French-Moroccan photographer who was in Burkina Faso on assignment for Amnesty International. The organisation expressed their condolences to families of the two.

Amnesty says its priority is to ensure the best possible support for Mahamadi and Leila’s families. The organization’s representatives are at the hospital liaising with the families, doctors and all officials involved.

Adisa Amanor Wilks

Adisa is an experienced international journalist and charity communications professional. I dream of when the African narrative will change to reflect the hope and beauty of the people.