By: Alieu Ceesay
In the early hours of Monday, a devastating shipwreck occurred off the coast of Nouakchott, Mauritania, resulting in the loss of numerous Sub-Saharan African migrants’ lives, including some Gambians. Reports indicate that the vessel, which embarked from Kafountine, Senegal, was transporting approximately 150 to 180 individuals from Senegal and The Gambia.
These migrants pursued a better life, fleeing economic difficulties in their native countries, and often embarked on dangerous journeys driven by desperation and the hope for a better future. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers they face.
Around noon GMT, approximately two hours after the boat sank, eyewitnesses reported seeing more than nine to ten dead bodies in the water. “I saw more than 9 to 10 dead bodies,” said an eyewitness. “I think many people have lost their lives, but at this moment, I don’t know how many survived.”
The Mauritanian navy intercepted the vessel before it capsized; however, their efforts were tragically insufficient to avert the disaster.
“The boat turned upside down before the navy could rescue them,” explained Ebrima Drammeh, a local and International expert on migrant situations. “Some managed to escape and survive, but we fear many have drowned.”
Efforts to contact the Gambian embassy in Mauritania for further information have been unsuccessful, as embassy officials have not yet responded to our calls. “I am calling the Gambian embassy in Mauritania, but none of them are picking up their phones at the moment,” Ebrima said. “I will update you with more information as soon as it becomes available.”
This heartbreaking incident highlights the ongoing and often deadly challenges faced by migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa. Their dangerous journeys, undertaken for safety and opportunity, frequently end in tragedy.
“We must address the root causes of this migration crisis,” Ebrima urged. “Until then, these heart-wrenching stories will continue to be told.”
As the world awaits more details, the families and communities of the victims are left in anguish, hoping for news of their loved ones. This disaster underscores the urgent need for better support and safer pathways for migrants, ensuring that such tragedies become a thing of the past.
