Amongst the 17, the three UNFPA staff were;

1. Mr Adnene Souilah – Assistant Representative

2. Mr Kamel Sait – National Programme Analyst

3. Mr Mustapha Benbara – Administrative/Financial Associate

Each leaves behind a wife and two kids.

In a sense of deep solidarity and sympathy, UNFPA Executive Director Thoraya A. Obaid in her 13th December 2007 message to the entire UNFPA staff conveyed her outrage and sadness at the senseless, brutal and tragic loss of life and sufferings caused by these terrorist attacks. The Executive Director calls on all UNFPA staff for collective vigilance and continual support and encouragement of each other.

Similarly, the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon has declared a period of mourning for the entire UN System during which all UN flags worldwide will be flown at half mask. He also requested that the entire UN System observe a minute of silence on Monday 17th December 2007, 10:00am local time in honour of the fallen heroes. Yao Faustin, UNFPA – Cameroon representative and his entire staff responded faithfully to the call. In a solemn mood, the Representative narrated the flow of events, updating the staff on what had transpired so far. After a minute of silence, a message form the UNFPA Executive Director in relation to the incident was read. The staff members took turns each reading out the name of a lost colleague.

The Representative reiterated the fact that such an attack was indeed an attack on the entire UN System and staff must observe all security measures put in place for their safety. The victims Yao Faustin concluded were not soldiers but colleagues who had dedicated their service to ensure the development of the Algerian people by serving the noble mission of the United Nations.

On this note, Yao Faustin and the entire UNFPA Cameroon team join their voices to those of the UN Systems and sympathisers in wishing the bereaved families, friends and colleagues their heartfelt condolences. Our prayers, thoughts and sympathies are with you.