SRSG KEATING CONDEMNS BOMBINGS IN MOGADISHU AND OFFERS UN SUPPORT TO THE RESPONSE BY SOMALI AUTHORITIES

The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Somalia, Michael Keating, condemned yesterday’s bombings in the Somali capital that have killed a large number of innocent civilians.

“I am shocked and appalled by the number of lives that were lost in the bombings and the scale of destruction they caused,” he said. “Our deepest condolences go to the families and friends of the dead, and our thoughts are with the injured and all those affected.”

The United Nations and the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) are working closely to support the response by the Federal Government of Somalia and local government authorities in Mogadishu, including the provision of logistical support, medical supplies and expertise in the aftermath of the bombings.

“The perpetrators struck a densely populated neighbourhood of Mogadishu. They have killed an unprecedented number of civilians. It is a revolting attack both in terms of its intent and impact” said SRSG Keating. “All Somalis must unite to condemn and repulse this kind of violent extremism.”

The SRSG said that the immediate priority is to support efforts led by the authorities to recover from the attack and help all those affected, especially the injured and newly homeless. “The international community will do everything possible to help the people and government of Somalia to overcome this tragedy.”