The death toll from the capsizing of boats carrying Somali migrants near Madagascar has risen to 25, with 48 survivors rescued. The boats departed from Mogadishu nearly a month ago, heading to the French territory of Mayotte. Investigations are underway, and the Somali government is coordinating the repatriation of its citizens.
Authorities in Madagascar have reported a tragic increase in the death toll to 25 following the capsizing of two motorboats carrying Somali migrants in the Indian Ocean. The vessels were attempting to reach the French territory of Mayotte, having departed from a beach near Mogadishu with 73 individuals on board nearly a month prior. Recent rescue efforts recovered 48 survivors, with officials launching an investigation into the incident’s cause. Additionally, Somalia’s government is coordinating the repatriation of its citizens.
The perilous journeys undertaken by many young Somalis in search of better opportunities abroad have escalated in recent years due to ongoing conflicts and environmental challenges, such as drought. The U.N. International Organization for Migration has raised alarms regarding the increasing incidents of irregular migration from countries in the Horn of Africa. In a related incident in April, 38 migrants lost their lives, further highlighting the risks faced by individuals pursuing migration routes in these regions.
The recent tragedy off the coast of Madagascar underscores the dangerous conditions faced by migrants embarking on perilous sea journeys in search of a better life. The increasing numbers of such incidents draw attention to the urgent need for international cooperation and humanitarian assistance to address the root causes of migration from the Horn of Africa. As investigations continue, it is paramount that measures are undertaken to protect vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
