By: Alieu Ceesay
Ebrima Drammeh, a Gambian migrant activist now residing in Germany, is on a mission to illuminate the often-overlooked stories of those who risk everything in search of a better future. Driven by a commitment to raise awareness about the challenges faced by migrants, Drammeh reflects on the narratives that have shaped his work and fueled his dedication to this cause.
Having witnessed the plight of Gambians who embarked on perilous journeys to Europe, often leaving loved ones behind with little information about their safety, Drammeh understands the urgency of his mission. His activism began years ago, motivated by a desire to amplify the voices of migrants and combat the misinformation that frequently surrounds irregular migration.
“Migration is a deeply human story, often involving struggle, hope, and resilience,” Drammeh explains. “Reporting on it allows me to amplify the voices of those often marginalized or unheard. My motivation stems from the need to shed light on the social, economic, and political factors driving migration and contribute to informed discussions that inspire meaningful change.”
Drammeh’s activism is rooted in meticulous research and a commitment to truth. He navigates complex people and data networks to gather information about migration cases. “I employ a mix of methods to ensure accuracy,” he notes. “This includes conducting direct interviews with migrants, families, and local stakeholders, collaborating with NGOs and migration experts, and cross-referencing reports from reputable organizations like the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Alamphone.”
Through his efforts, Drammeh aims to foster understanding and empathy for migrants, encouraging a more informed and compassionate approach to migration issues. His work serves as a reminder of the resilience of individuals who venture into the unknown, seeking hope and a better life.
Ebrima Drammeh’s work as a migrant activist is deeply influenced by the stories of individuals like a young Gambian fisherman who faced significant challenges in his pursuit of a better life. After deciding to embark on the perilous Mediterranean journey to Europe in hopes of supporting his family, the fisherman ultimately found himself repatriated through a humanitarian program. Drammeh reflects on how the fisherman’s journey illustrates the desperation that fuels irregular migration and underscores the need to create sustainable opportunities within local communities to prevent such risky decisions.
Drammeh has also been vocal about the implications of the Gambia-Senegal fishing agreement on local fishermen. He points out that increased access for foreign entities to fishing zones has led to depleted fish stocks, directly impacting the livelihoods of local fishermen. This economic strain can push individuals toward migration as they seek alternative means of income. He advocates for policies promoting sustainable fishing practices and equitable resource sharing, emphasizing that such measures could stabilize local communities and reduce the pressure to migrate.
Despite his commitment to this cause, Drammeh faces challenges in his work. Many migrants are reluctant to share their experiences due to concerns about stigma or potential legal consequences. He emphasizes the importance of building trust, ensuring anonymity, and demonstrating genuine empathy to address these issues. Additionally, he acknowledges the emotional weight of listening to traumatic stories from migrants. He highlights the significance of maintaining a support network and seeking professional counseling to manage the psychological impact.
Drammeh advocates for a multifaceted approach to addressing the root causes of migration, emphasizing the need for investment in various sectors, including job creation in agriculture, fishing, and small enterprises. He highlights the importance of education and skills development that align with local market demands and good governance to restore public trust.
Additionally, he underscores the necessity of building climate resilience to mitigate the impacts of climate change alongside awareness campaigns that inform communities about the risks of irregular migration while promoting local opportunities.
Ebrima Drammeh echoes that long-term solutions require collaboration among governments, NGOs, and international organizations. He emphasizes creating an environment that allows individuals to thrive without feeling compelled to migrate. Drammeh views his work as not just activism but a call to action, aiming to amplify the voices of those often overlooked and encouraging Gambians and the international community to engage with migration issues in a manner characterized by compassion and accountability.
