SIHMA Press Review for October 2024
PRESS REVIEW – SOUTH AFRICA
01 - South Africa’s GNU faces an uphill battle on migration policy
Margaret Monyani, Mmabatho Mongae, ISS – Institute for Security Studies in Africa, 10/07/2024
South Africa’s Government of National Unity faces challenges in reconciling competing interests on migration policy. Despite some progressive asylum and migration policies, the country struggles with populist rhetoric and anti-immigrant sentiment. The GNU must find a unified approach to address labor shortages, enhance economic growth, and foster social cohesion while balancing public demands for tighter immigration control. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://issafrica.org/iss-today/south-africa-s-gnu-faces-an-uphill-battle-on-migration-policy
02 - ‘I can’t survive’: Malawians hit hard by South Africa’s crackdown on illegal migration
Charles Pensulo, Rachel Savage, The Guardian, 10/10/2024
South African authorities have intensified their crackdown on illegal immigrants, leading to the deportation of more Malawians migrants. Despite the hardships in South Africa, including low wages and xenophobia, many Malawians continue to migrate to the country searching for better job opportunities. The economic situation in Malawi, with high inflation and unemployment, has driven many to seek work abroad, with remittances becoming a significant source of income for the country. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/oct/10/i-cant-survive-malawians-hit-hard-by-south-africas-crackdown-on-migration
03 - An Insider’s View on Migration to South Africa
The Borgen Project, Borgen Magazine
African Refugee and Migrants Aid (ARMA) assists refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers in South Africa, providing documentation and legal advice. The Department of Home Affairs is plagued by corruption, with officials demanding bribes for documentation and papers. ARMA is hopeful that the new coalition government will address these issues and promote a more inclusive and open Africa. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.borgenmagazine.com/insiders-view-on-migration-to-south-africa/
04 - South Africa: Guidelines for Points for General Work Visa and Critical Skills Work Visa Criteria Published
Fragomen, 10/23/2024
South Africa's Department of Home Affairs has implemented a new points-based system for the General Work Visa and Critical Skills Work Visa. Applicants must achieve 100 points based on criteria such as qualifications, experience, and language skills. This system aims to streamline visa processing and reduce document requirements. The Critical Skills Visa focuses on attracting talent in essential fields, while the General Work Visa evaluates qualifications, salary, and employer status. These updates are expected to boost economic growth by attracting skilled professionals. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.fragomen.com/insights/south-africa-guidelines-for-points-for-general-work-visa-and-critical-skills-work-visa-criteria-published.html
05 - Prof Rugunanan’s inaugural address explores migration and identity in the Global South
University of Johannesburg, 10/23/2024
Professor Pragna Rugunanan delivered her inaugural address exploring themes of migration, identity, and belonging in the Global South. Her address emphasized the impact of historical migration patterns, social inequalities, and economic policies on migrants. She highlighted that issues like xenophobia, displacement, and social integration challenges disproportionately affect migrants from the Global South, who often face systemic exclusion and limited opportunities. Her speech calls for a better understanding of these challenges and advocates for inclusive policies to improve social cohesion and the rights of migrant communities. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://news.uj.ac.za/news/prof-rugunanans-inaugural-address-explores-migration-and-identity-in-the-global-south/
06 - Posts incite anti-foreigner sentiment with old video of unrest in South Africa
AFP Fact Check, AFP, 10/31/2024
An old 2017 video of anti-immigrant protests in South Africa is circulating with misleading claims of current unrest. This footage, recently shared on social media and WhatsApp, was used to incite anti-foreigner sentiment, falsely suggesting an impending "armed uprising" by foreign nationals. AFP's fact-check confirms that the video is not recent and was taken out of context. South Africa has seen heightened anti-immigrant rhetoric and actions, especially following its 2024 elections. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://factcheck.afp.com/doc.afp.com.36L44H2
07 - White paper on immigration a tool of faux-nativist exclusion
Michael Schmidt, News24, 10/19/2024
Michael Schmidt critiques South Africa’s recent White Paper on Immigration, calling it a “faux-nativist” policy that promotes exclusion under the guise of national interest. He argues the policy unfairly scapegoat immigrants for social and economic challenges, instead of addressing structural issues like inequality and unemployment. The approach risks alienating neighboring countries and disregards South Africa’s historical identity as a migrant-friendly nation, potentially damaging both regional cooperation and the economy. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.news24.com/news24/opinions/columnists/guestcolumn/michael-schmidt-white-paper-on-immigration-a-tool-of-faux-nativist-exclusion-20241019
08 - Deportations from South Africa set to triple, minister says
Carien du Plessis, The African Report, 10/22/2024
South Africa’s government plans to triple deportations of undocumented immigrants, aiming to remove over 67,000 individuals from the country in response to domestic pressures on immigration and job competition. The deportations mainly target migrants from neighboring African nations like Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Mozambique. Critics argue this approach risks further strain on regional relations and raises humanitarian concerns about treatment and due process for migrants. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.theafricareport.com/365464/deportations-from-south-africa-set-to-triple-minister-says/
09 - ActionSA lays blame for illegal immigrants on Home Affairs’ door
Viola May, SABC News, 10/15/2024
ActionSA has criticized South Africa's Department of Home Affairs, alleging insufficient efforts in tracking undocumented foreign nationals. The party’s recent oversight visits in Gauteng revealed illegal activities involving foreign nationals in the area. In Hammanskraal, ActionSA discovered that undocumented migrants had turned 23 residential homes into small businesses like spaza shops and restaurants, some selling counterfeit goods. ActionSA MP Lerato Ngobeni noted that many undocumented individuals bypass formal entry points, entering without any record, which makes tracking difficult. Ngobeni highlighted concerns about the lack of effective monitoring systems, as undocumented migrants often "disappear" once inside the country. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/action-sa/
10 - ‘Law in the pipeline to reserve certain jobs for South Africans’
Sibahle Motha, SABC News, 10/27/2024
Nomakhosazana Meth announced that the South African government is developing a law to reserve specific job categories for South African citizens. This effort, part of the National Labour Migration Policy amendment, would grant ministers authority to restrict certain employment opportunities, particularly lower-skilled positions, to local citizens. Meth emphasized that the policy aims to support South Africans, especially recent graduates and those with vocational training, by ensuring they have better access to job opportunities. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/law-in-the-pipeline-to-reserve-certain-jobs-for-south-africans/
PRESS REVIEW – REGIONAL
01 - Immigration officer found with cash, six passports suspended
Jeanette Chabalala, Sowetan Live, 10/01/2024
A Border Management Authority (BMA) official was suspended after being arrested for allegedly possessing R3,700 in cash and six foreign nationals' passports. The 52-year-old immigration officer is suspected of planning to illegally stamp the passports without the travelers presenting themselves to immigration at the Beitbridge port of entry. BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi stated that the individuals may have been trying to avoid official immigration procedures. BMA Commissioner Dr. Michael Masiapato emphasized the organization's zero-tolerance policy toward corruption and unethical conduct, vowing swift action and a thorough investigation into the matter to maintain integrity and public trust in the BMA. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.sowetanlive.co.za/news/2024-10-01-immigration-officer-found-with-cash-six-passports-suspended/
02 - Zim Bolsters Migration Protection Systems
Daniel Chigunwe, The Herald, 10/13/2024
Zimbabwe is enhancing its migration protection systems as part of its commitment to the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration. The country has decentralized its civil registry, allowing Zimbabweans abroad, particularly in South Africa, access to essential documents like birth certificates and e-passports. Moreover, Zimbabwe is implementing a Online Border Management System at all major border posts, with upgrades planned for key border facilities. This effort aims to improve border governance, human rights protections, and facilitate smoother migration processes. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.herald.co.zw/zim-bolsters-migration-protection-systems/#
03 - Extreme weather is disrupting lives in southern Africa: new policies are needed to keep the peace
Gracsious Maviza, Siyaxola Gadu
Southern Africa is increasingly affected by extreme weather, such as cyclones and droughts, disrupting agriculture, food security, and livelihoods, leading to social tensions and conflict. Climate change-induced displacement intensifies competition for scarce resources. Women, responsible for household resources, are disproportionately impacted, while men often migrate for work, which can disrupt family dynamics. Current policies largely ignore the link between climate change and security. Experts call for policies that build resilience, improve disaster preparedness, and incorporate local solutions to mitigate climate-related risks. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://theconversation.com/extreme-weather-is-disrupting-lives-in-southern-africa-new-policies-are-needed-to-keep-the-peace-238840
04 - Zimbabwe’s Exodus: A Symptom of Illegal Sanctions-Induced Suffering
Stanford Chiwanga, The Chronicle, 10/28/2024
The article argues that Zimbabwe's ongoing exodus of people is largely a result of sanctions imposed by Western nations, particularly the U.S. and the EU. These sanctions have crippled the country's economy, resulting in job losses, reduced agricultural productivity, and severe financial isolation. Many Zimbabweans have migrated in search of better opportunities, exacerbating the brain drain. While remittances help families back home, the sanctions' long-term effects hinder the nation's growth and development, calling for their removal to enable economic recovery. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.chronicle.co.zw/zimbabwes-exodus-a-symptom-of-illegal-sanctions-induced-suffering/
05 - Zim migrants creating jobs, saving lives in SA
Silas Nkala, Newsday, 10/07/2024
Zimbabwean migrants in South Africa are playing a significant role in both economy and society. Many are creating jobs, particularly in small businesses and informal sectors, while others are providing essential services in healthcare. Despite facing challenges such as discrimination, they contribute to the country's growth by working in sectors where there is a labor shortage. Their resilience highlights the positive impact migrants can have, as they not only support their families back home through remittances but also contribute to the broader South African economy. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200033276/zim-migrants-creating-jobs-saving-lives-in-sa
06 - Zimbabwe Negotiates Portable Social Cover for Diasporans
Nqobile Tshili, The Chronicle, 10/23/2024
Zimbabwe is negotiating portable social security arrangements for diaspora migrant workers, particularly those in countries like Rwanda and South Africa. The aim is to ensure that migrants can transfer their social security contributions across borders, benefiting from them when they return home. Zimbabwe has made progress with bilateral agreements, such as one with Rwanda, and is working with other nations like Zambia. This initiative is part of broader efforts to secure pension and social protection benefits for Zimbabweans working abroad. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.chronicle.co.zw/zimbabwe-negotiates-portable-social-security-cover-for-diasporans/
07 - High passport fees may hinder Zimbabwe’s remittance flows
Bulawayo 24 News, 10/18/2024
The article highlights concern that Zimbabwe's high passport fees, which range from US$150 to US$250, may hinder citizens' ability to migrate, potentially reducing remittance flows crucial to the country's economy. The Zimbabwe Banks and Allied Workers Union (Zibawu) has urged the government to lower the fees, as they are significantly higher than those in neighboring countries. Such fees restrict Zimbabweans' ability to seek economic opportunities abroad, limiting the foreign currency flow that is vital for the nation's financial stability. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://bulawayo24.com/index-id-news-sc-national-byo-246868.html
08 -Parents Speak After Botswana Authorities Detained 14 Zimbabwean Children Without Passports For 48 Days
Siyabonga Mpini, iHarare, 10/03/2024
The article discusses an incident where 14 Zimbabwean children were detained by Botswana authorities for 48 days due to lacking passports while traveling with a cross-border operator. The children, heading to South Africa for holidays, were intercepted by authorities in August. During their detention, parents were not allowed to visit and were asked for DNA tests to prove their parentage. The children missed school, including critical exams. Parents expressed regret for sending their children without proper documentation and vowed to secure passports for future travels. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://iharare.com/parents-speak-after-botswana-authorities-detained-14-zimbabwean-children-without-passports-for-48-days/
PRESS REVIEW – AFRICA
01 - Needs Soar for Flood-Displaced Communities in Chad, IOM Scales Up Aid
IOM, 10/17/2024
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is scaling up aid to over 13,000 people displaced by flooding in Chad. The disaster has left nearly two million people in urgent need of assistance, especially in the capital, N'Djamena. IOM's efforts include providing shelter, water, sanitation, and hygiene support, as well as conducting needs assessments. The organization collaborates with local authorities and partners to address immediate and long-term needs, including preventing waterborne diseases and ensuring displaced families' safety. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.iom.int/news/needs-soar-flood-displaced-communities-chad-iom-scales-aid
02 - African Countries Commit to Strengthen Cooperation to Better Protect Migrants
IOM, 10/11/2024
African countries have committed to enhancing cooperation on migration to better protect migrants. During the second Africa review of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration, more than 300 participants from across the continent discussed strengthening migrant protection, improving migration data, and emphasizing migration as an opportunity for development. The conference underscored the need for regular migration pathways and international collaboration, with pledges from African nations like Kenya and Eswatini, contributing to regional cooperation. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.iom.int/news/african-countries-commit-strengthen-cooperation-better-protect-migrants
03 - 45 Dead and 111 Missing in Tragic Incident off Djibouti Coast
IOM, 10/02/2024
At least 45 people have died, and 111 remain missing after a tragic incident off the Djibouti coast, involving migrants forced off their boats in the open sea by smugglers. The victims were returning from Yemen. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is coordinating rescue efforts and providing humanitarian support. This incident marks the deadliest year for migrant sea crossings on the Eastern Route from the Horn of Africa to Yemen, underscoring the urgency of protecting migrants and addressing the root causes of such perilous journeys. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.iom.int/news/45-dead-and-111-missing-tragic-incident-djibouti-coast
04 - UNHCR calls for urgent help for 228,000 flood-affected people in West Africa
UNHCR, 10/31/2024
The UNHCR is urgently calling for $10.6 million to support 228,000 people affected by severe floods in West and Central Africa. Countries like Chad, Niger, Nigeria, and Cameroon are facing widespread displacement due to extreme climate events. The funds are critical for delivering shelter, protection, and emergency aid to those displaced by flooding, which has compounded existing crises in the region. The UNHCR is also working to strengthen long-term resilience and response plans. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.unhcr.org/news/press-releases/unhcr-calls-urgent-help-228-000-flood-affected-people-west-africa
05 - IOM Expands Mpox Appeal to Reach Migrants and IDPs Across Africa
IOM, 10/30/2024
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has expanded its appeal to raise $27.8 million to aid migrants and internally displaced persons (IDPs) across Africa facing mpox. As cases rise, the funding will enhance health screenings, cross-border coordination, and community outreach. This response focuses on high-risk populations with limited access to health resources, aiming to support containment efforts in affected regions. With only $1 million currently secured, IOM urges international support to sustain critical response activities. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.iom.int/news/iom-expands-mpox-appeal-reach-migrants-and-idps-across-africa
06 - UN agencies warn of spiraling Sudan crisis as civilians face grave risks and famine threat grows amid access barriers
UHNCR, 10/25/2024
UNHCR and UNICEF warn of a worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where 11 million people are displaced, and 13 million children face acute food insecurity. Many areas are nearing famine, with severe malnutrition among children. Limited access, logistical challenges, and safety issues hinder aid delivery. The agencies urge immediate support to address urgent needs, including food, shelter, and medical aid, and call for a ceasefire to protect civilians and improve access for humanitarian efforts. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.unhcr.org/news/press-releases/un-agencies-warn-spiraling-sudan-crisis-civilians-face-grave-risks-and-famine
07 - News comment: UN High Commissioner for Refugees calls for global support as more people flee to Uganda
UNHCR, 10/22/2024
UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi calls for increased global support as Uganda faces rising numbers of refugees, primarily from Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Uganda’s inclusive policies help refugees gain self-reliance and benefit host communities, but resources are overstretched due to high demand. Grandi stresses the need for sustained international funding and collaboration to uphold this successful model. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.unhcr.org/news/press-releases/news-comment-un-high-commissioner-refugees-calls-global-support-more-people
08 -Theo James visits Mauritania to spotlight refugees' climate challenges ahead of COP29
UNHCR, 10/17/2024
UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Theo James recently visited Mauritania’s Mbera refugee camp, meeting Malian refugees confronting climate challenges. Ahead of COP29, he observed the extreme droughts and resource scarcity impacting refugees and host communities. James emphasized the resilience of refugees leading local environmental initiatives, like fire brigades and tree planting, and urged global support for these communities at COP29. His advocacy aims to secure essential action and representation for displaced people in climate policy. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.unhcr.org/news/press-releases/theo-james-visits-mauritania-spotlight-refugees-climate-challenges-ahead-0
09 - UNHCR: New Global Alliance launched to consign statelessness to history
UNHCR, 10/15/2024
The UNHCR has launched a new Global Alliance to End Statelessness, aiming to ensure that everyone has a nationality and can exercise their rights. Building on the #IBelong campaign, this alliance unites over 100 governments and organizations to address statelessness, focusing on political commitment and including those with lived experiences. Turkmenistan recently resolved all known statelessness cases within its borders, showcasing the impact of legislative reform and international cooperation. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.unhcr.org/news/press-releases/unhcr-new-global-alliance-launched-consign-statelessness-history
10 - Opening Remarks by Mr. Claver Gatete at the 2nd Regional Review Meeting of The Implementation of The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration in Africa
UN ECA, 10/09/2024
In his opening remarks at the Second Regional Review Meeting for the Global Compact on Migration, Mr. Claver Gatete emphasized the importance of safe migration for Africa’s development. He outlined five priorities: skill recognition across borders, portable social protections, the African Continental Free Trade Area’s role in job creation, climate-resilient migration policies, and data-driven migration strategies. Gatete urged collaboration to leverage migration’s potential for sustainable growth in Africa. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://uneca.org/stories/opening-remarks-by-mr.-claver-gatete-at-the-2nd-regional-review-meeting-of-the
11 - UN calls for safer migration from Horn of Africa to Gulf countries
Eskinder Firew, Jalene Gemeda, VOA News, 10/09/2024
The UN calls for safer migration from the Horn of Africa to the Gulf countries, as migrants face severe risks, including recent tragic incidents off Djibouti’s coast. IOM Director-General Amy Pope highlighted the urgent need for safe migration pathways to reduce reliance on traffickers. Root causes like conflict, poverty, and climate change are key factors driving migration. The UN urges regional collaboration to ensure migrants can access safer options and reduce exploitation risks. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.voanews.com/a/un-calls-for-safer-migration-from-horn-of-africa-to-gulf-countries-/7816802.html
12 - Mauritania becomes a launchpad for irregular migration to the EU
Federica Saini Fasanotti, GIS Reports Online, 10/16/2024
Mauritania has become a key departure point for migrants aiming to reach Europe through the Canary Islands, with a sharp rise in undocumented migration to Spain in 2024. The EU and Mauritania recently strengthened cooperation, including a €210 million aid package to curb irregular migration and improve local conditions. Despite these efforts, many migrants continue to risk the hazardous Atlantic route, leading to numerous fatalities. The situation highlights challenges in managing migration amid regional instability and limited local opportunities. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.gisreportsonline.com/r/mauritania-migrant-eu-atlantic-route/
13 - Localizing Migration Governance in the Horn of Africa’s Secondary Cities
Cities Alliance, 10/17/2024
A Cities Alliance initiative in the Horn of Africa focuses on localizing migration governance in secondary cities, helping them manage urban challenges tied to forced migration. Supported by the EU, the program in cities like Assosa, Jigjiga, and Kakuma-Kalobeyei builds planning capacity, integrates refugees into urban frameworks, and fosters collaboration across local and displaced communities. The approach includes “frontstage” visibility to attract support and a “backstage” for inclusive planning. This model enhances city resilience, benefiting both local and migrant populations. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.citiesalliance.org/newsroom/news/results/localizing-migration-governance-horn-africa%E2%80%99s-secondary-cities
14 - Africans who apply for Schengen visas face high rejection rates
Mehari Taddele Maru, Moneyweb, 10/11/2024
The article explains that high Schengen visa rejection rates for African applicants stem from factors like perceived risk of overstaying, lack of financial stability, and insufficient travel history. African nations often face higher rejection rates compared to other regions, raising concerns about fairness and accessibility in visa processes. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.moneyweb.co.za/moneyweb-opinion/soapbox/africans-who-apply-for-schengen-visas-face-high-rejection-rates/
15 - African Union Commission and IOM Pledge to Strengthen Collaboration, Address Migration Challenges
African Union, 10/09/2024
The African Union Commission (AUC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have committed to enhancing their collaboration to address migration challenges across Africa. This partnership focuses on improving migration management, promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration, and addressing the root causes of irregular migration. By aligning efforts, they aim to provide better protection for migrants and boost development across the continent. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://au.int/en/pressreleases/20241009/african-union-commission-and-iom-pledge-strengthen-collaboration-address
16 - Amplifying the stories of African migrants
Mohammed Taoheed, International Journalists Network
Diaspora Africa, co-founded by Nigerian journalist Amaka Obioji and researcher Chimee Adioha, amplifies the voices of African migrants using media and digital platforms. The organization documents migration trends, focusing on issues like climate-related displacement and migration policies. It also trains journalists on migration coverage. Despite challenges such as limited expertise and funding, Diaspora Africa aims to influence migration policy and increase awareness of the migrant experience across the continent. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://ijnet.org/en/story/amplifying-stories-african-migrants
17 - A fool’s mission: Trying to track the impact of EU migration funding in Senegal
Jack Thompson, The New Humanitarian
Tracking the impact of EU migration funding in Senegal is a complex challenge, with limited transparency and unclear outcomes. Despite millions invested in initiatives to curb irregular migration, the effectiveness of these programs remains difficult to assess. Many projects lack clear objectives, and data on success is often scarce, leaving questions about whether the funding is achieving its intended goals. The lack of robust monitoring mechanisms complicates understanding the true impact of EU migration efforts on local communities in Senegal. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/feature/2024/10/17/fools-mission-trying-track-impact-eu-migration-funding-senegal
18 - Fordham Expert Explains the Lure of Europe for African Migrants, Despite Dangers
Jane Martinez, Fordham University, 10/01/2024
Julie Kleinman, an expert on West African migration, explains why African migrants continue to risk dangerous journeys to Europe despite growing awareness of the risks. She highlights that economic uncertainty, the search for status, and migration as a cultural rite of passage drive many to seek better opportunities abroad. Kleinman also critiques European development efforts, noting that economic growth in countries like Senegal isn't benefiting local communities, making migration more appealing due to the higher remittances migrants can send back home. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://now.fordham.edu/in-the-media/al-jazeera-fordham-expert-explains-the-lure-of-europe-for-african-migrants-despite-dangers/
19 - Bourita Slams EU’s Fixation on Migration, Says Most Africans Remain in Africa
Morocco World News, 10/08/2024
Morocco's Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, criticized the European Union's focus on migration, arguing that it distracts from more pressing issues facing African nations. He pointed out that most Africans prefer to remain within the continent rather than migrate to Europe, emphasizing the need for EU cooperation on development to address the root causes of migration. Bourita suggested that the EU should shift its attention to policies that enhance economic opportunities and address Africa's challenges internally. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://moroccoworldnews.com/2024/10/365643/bourita-slams-eus-fixation-on-migration-says-most-africans-remain-in-africa
20 - 'Try or die’ - one man’s determination to get to the Canary Islands
Bianca Munoz, Chirs Alcock, Mame Cheik Mbaye, BBC Africa Eye, 10/14/2024
Senegalese farmer Mouhamed Oualy is preparing for a dangerous sea journey to Spain’s Canary Islands, part of a growing wave of migrants risking their lives on the perilous Atlantic route. Despite the risks, including overcrowded boats, dehydration, and storms, Oualy hopes to provide for his family. The route has become the deadliest in the world, with over 800 deaths in 2024 alone. Although his boat had to turn back, Oualy remains determined, planning to try again despite the risks. For more details, you can view the full article here: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g957x3g49o
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