South Africa condemns attack on UN compound in Mogadishu and the killing of UN staff and civilians, including South Africans
20 June 2013
The South African Government has noted with great concern and strongly condemns the disgraceful attack on the United Nations (UN) Common Compound in Mogadishu on 19 June 2013.
During the attack 15 people were killed, including two South Africans, therefore the South African Government extends its sincere condolences to the UN, the Somali Government, family and friends of those who died and especially to the families, friends and colleagues of the two South Africans who died.
The South African Government also wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the Somali Armed Forces and the peacekeeping troops of the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) who came to the assistance of those international development and humanitarian workers trapped in the UN compound during the attack.
It is tragic that the United Nations, the international organisation promoting peace, social and economic development and humanitarian assistance to the Somali Government and people of the country, have come under attack. South African is certain that the UN Office in Somalia will continue its sterling work from its base in Mogadishu in support of the Somali Government and people of the country despite this temporary setback.
The attack comes at a time when sound progress has been registered towards the establishment of stability, and sustainable social and economic development in Somalia and while the Somali Government remains in need of the support of the international community, including the UN.
The South African Government further urges all political groups outside the political process in Somalia to renounce violence and raise their concerns with the Federal Somali Government in a constructive and reconciliatory manner.
For further information please contact Mr. Clayson Monyela spokesperson for DIRCO on 082 884 5974
Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Pretoria
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