Kenya’s ally US honours victims of the mall raid
What you need to know:
- Al-Shabaab killed 67 and wounded 175 people on September 21, 2013.
- We will never forget the victims or the suffering of their families.
- The US is working hard with Kenya to strengthen mutual security.
- Fighting extremism is a whole-of-society effort.
On Wednesday, we remember the terrible attack at Westgate Mall, where Al-Shabaab killed 67 and wounded 175 people on September 21, 2013.
We will never forget the victims or the suffering of their families. We also remember the bravery of those who risked everything to stop the terror. We stand with you in solidarity.
The United States and Kenya share a commitment to freedom, democracy, rule of law and respect for human life that remains the best response the world can give to Al-Shabaab and other extremist groups.
There should be no doubt: We are in this fight together. The US is working hard with Kenya to strengthen mutual security. We know that governments, civil society, international organisations and citizens must work together to diminish the appeal of violent ideologies, discourage extremist recruitment and address the root causes of discontent among vulnerable youth.
Fighting extremism is a whole-of-society effort. We look forward to working with the Kenyan government and local communities to implement the new national Countering Violent Extremism strategy aimed at ending the scourge of terrorism and bringing peace and prosperity.
SUPPORTING PEACE
We welcome Kenya’s leadership in supporting peace and stability in the region, including sheltering hundreds of thousands of refugees who have fled violence, persecution and disaster. We deeply appreciate the hospitality.
Despite the shadow cast by acts of terror, I know that the future is bright for Kenya. Kenya is on the world stage this week in New York at the events surrounding the United Nations General Assembly, as it should be.
Kenya and Africa are moving forward. Peace and prosperity are inextricably linked as parts of a common future for all the people of this great continent.
Success will require strong efforts on security as well as holding firm to our shared values, including democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law and economic progress.
We have been allies for more than 50 years and the United States’ commitment is unwavering: We remain a proud, strong and steadfast partner of the government and people of Kenya.
