The force said the suicide attack targeting the Somali national theatre was a despicable crime against the Somali people, saying that such attacks will not stop them achieving peace in Somalia.

In a press statement, AMISOM deputy force commander, Brigadier General Audace Nduwumunsi said they condemn the attack and stand alongside the government and families of the Somali people who have been bereaved.

Nduwumunsi said Al-Shabaab’s actions show that they are enemies of peace and are foreign to Somali culture.

He added that the groups attack to derail the hopes and dreams of the Somalis will fail just the way it has failed to kill any Somali Government Ministers during the attack.

“We encourage people in Mogadishu to continue to come forward with information about possible attacks and explosives. We are your friends and brothers as you seek to build a better way of life”, said Nduwumunsi.

Somali officials said the attack was carried out by a female bomber blended in with the gathering at the national Theatre where celebrations were underway marking the first anniversary of the launch of Somali National Television.

The National Theatre reopened two weeks ago for the first time in more than twenty years.