In a heart-wrenching incident, a boat carrying migrants, suspected to be from Senegal, was discovered adrift off Cape Verde, West Africa. Over 60 people are feared dead, while 38 survivors, including children, were rescued and brought ashore on the island of Sal. The vessel had been at sea for more than a month and was initially thought to have sunk. Cape Verde officials are urging global action on migration to prevent further loss of life.
The wooden boat, resembling a Pirogue, was spotted over 320 km from Sal by a Spanish fishing vessel, which promptly alerted authorities. Among the survivors are four children aged 12 to 16, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The boat originated from the Senegalese fishing village of Fass Boye, departing on July 10 with 101 passengers on board.
The tragedy has left Fass Boye in shock, with anger simmering due to a lack of opportunities and support for the community’s youth. The survivors, mainly from Senegal, were on a perilous journey toward the Canary Islands, a route known for its dangers. Migration experts emphasize the need for safe migration pathways to combat the influence of smugglers and traffickers.
While poverty is a driving factor for migration, political instability in West Africa, including coups and insurgencies, has exacerbated the situation. Tensions persist in Senegal even as President Macky Sall announced he wouldn’t seek a third term. The incident highlights the dire need for international cooperation to address migration challenges and prevent further loss of life at sea.
