The World Health Organization (WHO) has condemned “in the strongest possible terms” the terrorist attack on the Pearl Beach Hotel and Restaurant located in the Abdiaziz district of Mogadishu, Somalia.
The fatal attack, which happened on Friday, resulted in the deaths of 16 civilians, including a WHO national staff member, and left more than 10 people injured.
Al-Qaida’s East Africa affiliate, al-Shabab, claimed responsibility for the attack.
WHO said it is appalled by the tragic loss of life in this extremist attack, including the death of Ms Nasra Hassan, a female staff member.
“Nasra, 27 years old, joined the WHO country office in Somalia to support the drought emergency response operations in Jubaland. She was known for her dedication, ambition and commitment among her colleagues.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Nasra’s family, as well as to the families and friends of all those who died during the attack,” said Dr Ahmed Al-Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean.
Dr Malik Mamunur, WHO Representative in Somalia, also condemned the “heinous attack” and expressed his deepest condolences to the family members of all those who were killed.
Despite working under dangerous conditions in the capital, WHO assured that it is committed to continuing efforts to preserve health and respond to emergencies in Somalia.
“WHO affirms that the safety and security of its staff is a paramount factor in ensuring ongoing life-saving response operations,” the organization stated.
