AU security council condemns Nairobi mall attack

The Peace and Security Council of the African Union condemned the terrorist attack perpetrated in Nairobi on Sept. 21, calling for more efforts to address terrorism.

In a statement at a meeting on Wednesday, the council "condemned, in the strongest terms possible, this heinous terrorist attack." "Council stressed that this attack on innocent civilians was an attack on the African continent as a whole."

The Council expressed its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, and its solidarity with the government and people of Kenya. The council wished the injured a speedy recovery.

"Council underlined that the Nairobi terrorist attack highlights the need for renewed efforts to address the scourge of terrorism, on the basis of the relevant AU and international instruments," said the statement.

The Council called on all member states to redouble their efforts in this respect, and to enhance inter-African counter terrorism cooperation.

The Council reiterated the AU's determination to continue its efforts in Somalia, in order to rid the country and the region of terrorist and criminal groups, and bring about lasting peace, security and stability in Somalia.