The United Nations has strongly condemned the attack on a mosque in northern Burkina Faso which killed at least 15 worshippers.

The attack took place in the village of Salmossi in the northern province of Oudalan on Friday evening but it was not reported until Saturday.

Local reports said the deadly attack took place during prayers when unidentified gunmen opened fire inside the Grand Mosque in Salmossi.

In a statement issued through his spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres expressed his deep condolences to the families of the deceased and the government and people of Burkina Faso.

While wishing a speedy recovery to the injured, Guterres reiterated the commitment of the UN to work with Burkina Faso to promote social cohesion and ensure the country stays on the path toward sustainable development.