Former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, has expressed "shock" at the recent terrorist attacks in Kenya.

More than sixty people have been confirmed dead including Ghana's former chairman of the Council of State, Professor Kofi Awoonor in the attack on the Westgate shopping mall in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi last Saturday.

The Somalia based militant group, al-Shabab have claimed responsibility for the attack.

Kofi Annan in a statement issued Monday said he is "horrified" by the brutal attack.

Below is the full statement

“I am shocked and horrified by the brutal attack against innocent people in the Westgate shopping mall in Nairobi this weekend. I would like to express my deepest condolences to all those who have lost family, friends and loved ones in this tragedy, and my sympathy to those injured and affected by the events.

In the last three days, Kenya and the world has witnessed the cowardice and cruelty of terrorism, which must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. No cause can ever justify the deliberate killing of innocent civilians. Those who have committed this terrible crime must be brought to justice as swiftly as possible.

I am heartened that the government and the people of Kenya are standing united and firm in resisting the terrorists.

As we mourn for the victims and their families, we are also reminded of our common humanity. Let us all reaffirm our commitment to work for peace, tolerance and justice for all.”

He was expressing his opinions on the place of young people in the decision-making process. The views were contained in a statement issued in Accra to coincide with the International Youth Day.