Addis Ababa, 18 March 2025– The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, strongly condemns the cowardly and indiscriminate car bomb attack in Mogadishu this morning, which targeted President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as he prepared to travel to the frontlines in the fight against Al Shabaab.

This despicable act of terror, staged at a busy intersection in the capital, is yet another desperate attempt by Al Shabaab to undermine the resolve of the Somali people and leadership.

The African Union stands in full solidarity with the Government and people of Somalia as they work to eliminate the menace of Al Shabaab. The growing public support for Somalia’s security operations is a testament to the nation’s collective will to reject extremism and secure a peaceful future.

The Chairperson extends his deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this senseless act of violence and wishes a swift recovery to the injured. He calls for sustained vigilance and continued regional and international cooperation to defeat terrorism and promote lasting peace and stability in Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.

The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM remains committed to supporting the Somali authorities in their efforts to restore security and protect civilians.
The AU remains a steadfast partner in Somalia’s journey toward peace, security, and development.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Mr. Nurr Mohamud Sheekh Spokesperson of the Chairperson +2510911510515 / +251115182903