The scene at the presidential compound in Mogadishu after it was attacked by a suicide bomber.

At least four people were killed in the blast which Al Shabaab has claimed responsibility for.

The hardline Islamist group, which formally joined al Qaeda last month, has increased its bombings in the capital --- in its efforts to underscore the continued insecurity in the country.

Somalia has been without a strong central government since 1991 and despite African Union efforts to secure Mogadishu, the coastal city remains prone to attack.

Deborah Gembara, Reuters.