Ghanaians have been warned against visiting northern Mali.

Ghanaians should avoid traveling to the Gao Region of Northern Mali and its environs, according to the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Commercial transport operators and drivers who still travel the Gao route from Ghana have been advised to halt all activities in that part of Mali as soon as possible.

Recent kidnappings and executions of travelers in that portion of the sub-region have prompted the Ministry's warning.

The Ministry issued a statement urging all individuals already in the zone to leave immediately for their safety and security.

"In light of recent abductions and executions of travelers, particularly Christians (including Ghanaians), in the Gao Region of Northern Mali," the statement said, "the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration strongly advises against all travel to Gao and its surrounding areas in North Eastern Mali."

Those who are unable to leave should limit their movement and watch developments in local security circumstances, as well as take safeguards based on their judgments, according to the statement.

The government's ability to aid citizens' exit from the Gao region, according to the Ministry, is restricted.

Those who require assistance should call the following numbers: +223 71762020, +223 20295768, and +233 77807676.