Nairobi, Kenya-The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) regretfully announces the death of Oyaw Abdwahd Ukash, security guard for the ADRA Somalia office in Gedo.

Mr. Oyaw, employed by ADRA Somalia since 2002, was shot and killed on the morning of September 14, 2003 while traveling with coworkers from El Wak, Kenya to a project site in Dhamasa, Somalia.

"He was very committed to his work and would even perform other tasks not included in his regular duties," said Ferdinand Njue, project coordinator for the Gedo Water Project. "We are devastated and deeply saddened by this loss, but are grateful for his dedicated work for our organization," added Njue.

ADRA Somalia is collaborating with the Kenyan Government and Somali Authorities to ensure that the situation is addressed appropriately. ADRA Somalia's field operations in Gedo have been suspended until an in-depth assessment is completed.

Mr. Oyaw is survived by his wife and two children.