President Jacob G Zuma extends condolences to Uganda following explosions targeting crowds watching the World Cup final yesterday

President Jacob G. Zuma, on behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of South Africa, has learnt with shock and dismay of the deplorable explosions targeting crowds watching the World Cup final at a rugby club at the Ethiopian restaurant in Kampala, Uganda, killing at least 64 people.

The government is deeply saddened by the loss of life resulting from these attacks.
He said:”South African Government condemns in the strongest possible terms these acts of terrorism aimed at maiming and hurting innocent people. The Government believes that, whatever reasons prompted the perpetrators of these deeds has against anybody or institution, it does not justify the killing of innocent people.”

Until thus far there are no South African citizens reported to have been affected by the incident. Department of International Relations Cooperation is in contact with the mission in Kampala and monitoring the situation and will communicate further developments in this regard.

South African government calls upon anybody or organisation responsible for these atrocious deeds, to refrain from using indiscriminate violence to achieve their aims, but to pursue their objectives in a dignified and peaceful   manner.

President further expressed his deep felt condolences to the families and relatives of the 64 people who died in the incident, and wished those who got hurt a speedy recovery.

For enquiries please contact Spokesperson for the President, Vincent Magwenya, on +27 72 715 0024 and Chief Director for Public Diplomacy, Saul Kgomotso Molobi, on +27 12 351 1000, +27 82 940 1647 or e-mail him at molobisk@dirco.gov.za

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation
Private Bag X152
PRETORIA
0001

12 July 2010