PRAIA: Over 60 people are feared dead when a migrant boat that embarked from Senegal in July capsized off the coast of Cape Verde, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). As of Wednesday, it is reported that 63 people are believed to have perished, while 38 survivors have been accounted for, including four children aged between 12 and 16, confirmed IOM spokeswoman Safa Msehli.
The ill-fated boat, which bore similarities to the traditional “pirogue” style vessel commonly used in the region, left Senegal approximately a month ago. Although exact numbers remain unclear, Cape Verdean authorities have confirmed the discovery of several deceased migrants, and around 40 survivors have been rescued so far. Fears loom that additional casualties may be confirmed as the search and rescue operations continue.
On Monday, a Spanish fishing boat spotted the vessel nearly 200 miles away from the island of Sal and promptly alerted Cape Verde authorities, prompting a response from local coast guard units. The tragic incident highlights the perilous journey undertaken by migrants seeking a better life, often putting their lives at risk by crossing treacherous waters in inadequate boats or motorized canoes, often provided by smugglers.
Cape Verde Lies Along Maritime Migration Toute Toward Europe
Cape Verde, situated approximately 600 kilometers (350 miles) off the West African coast, lies along the maritime migration route toward the Spanish Canary Islands, a known gateway to the European Union. The region has witnessed countless migrants braving the journey, driven by factors such as poverty and conflict in their home countries.
Cape Verdean Health Minister Filomena Goncalves emphasized the need for compassion and dignity in the face of such tragedies, stating, “We must open our arms and welcome the living and bury the dead with dignity,” as quoted by the Inforpress news agency.
This recent disaster serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges associated with migration and the risks faced by individuals seeking a better life far from home in Europe. In January, Cape Verde rescue teams successfully saved around 90 migrants who were adrift in a canoe, but tragically, two individuals lost their lives in the ordeal. The migrants hailed from countries including Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Sierra Leone.
