Minister Ellwood said:

I strongly condemn this latest attack in Mogadishu that claimed the lives of yet more innocent civilians.  My thoughts are with the families of the victims and those injured.  This attack and those like it, such as the suicide bombings in Galkayo on 21 August and last week’s attack at Lido beach, only strengthen our determination to work with the Somali people in their efforts to build a secure and stable future.

The UK stands with Somali security services, the African Union Mission in Somalia and other international partners in confronting the threat of al-Shabaab.  Together, we will continue to support Somalia in the fight against extremism, and as it strives towards a peaceful electoral process this year.