“This despicable terrorist act, perpetrated at a highly frequented crossroads in the capital, is yet another desperate attempt by the (terrorist group) Al-Shabaab to undermine the resolve of the Somali people and leaders,” read the communiqué. The African Union is “fully supportive” of the Somali government and people “in their efforts to eliminate the threat posed by Al-Shabaab,”added the source. “The growing public support for Somali security operations reflects the collective will of the country to reject extremism and ensure a peaceful future” it further emphasized, calling for continued regional and international cooperation “to defeat terrorism and promote lasting peace and stability in Somalia and throughout the Horn of Africa.” The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which has been in place since January 1st, “remains committed to supporting Somali authorities in their efforts to restore security and protect civilians,” the communiqué noted. According to Somalia’s Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, the explosion targeted a convoy in the Hamar-Jajab district of Mogadishu as the president was heading to the state of Hirshabelle. According to some reports, the explosion destroyed several nearby buildings and vehicles and killed four people, including a journalist.