45 persons dead, 61 missing as two migrant boats capsize off Djibouti coast

Two migrant boats carrying 310 people capsized near Djibouti’s coast, leaving at least 45 dead, Diaspora Digital Media has learnt.

The boats had departed from Yemen before sinking in the Red Sea on Tuesday, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) reported.

“To date, 61 individuals are still missing and the search operations are continuing relentlessly,” the Djibouti coastguard said. The boats sank just 150 meters from a beach near Djibouti’s north-west Khor Angar region, with 115 survivors rescued so far.

A “large-scale search” supported by the IOM began early Monday. “We remain committed to finding the missing persons and ensuring the safety of the survivors,” the agency said.

This latest tragedy highlights the dangers of one of the busiest migration routes, frequently used by African migrants seeking to escape conflict and poor economic conditions.

Thousands cross the Red Sea each year, often on overcrowded boats managed by smugglers.

In June, 56 Somali and Ethiopian migrants died and 140 others were reported missing after a similar incident in the Gulf of Aden.

Problem of illegal migration in Africa 

Illegal migration is a pervasive and complex issue affecting Africa, driven by a combination of factors including poverty, conflict, lack of education, and climate change.

According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), over 20 million African migrant annually, with 70% moving within the continent.

The root causes of illegal migration vary by region.

In North Africa, countries such as Morocco, Algeria, and Libya serve as gateways to Europe, attracting migrants seeking better economic opportunities.

The Horn of Africa, particularly Somalia and Eritrea, is plagued by conflict and poverty, forcing individuals to flee.

West Africa, including Nigeria and Ghana, struggles with economic instability and human trafficking.

Southern Africa, specifically South Africa and Mozambique, experiences xenophobia and economic migration.

The consequences of illegal migration are dire.

Migrants risk exploitation and abuse, loss of life during perilous journeys, and separation from families.

The brain drain and loss of skilled labor also hinder Africa’s development. Destination countries face strain on resources, while migrants often endure inhumane conditions.

Regional and international efforts aim to address this issue.

The African Union’s Migration Policy Framework and Regional Economic Communities’ initiatives seek to promote cooperation and manage migration.

The IOM provides critical support through programs focused on migration management, protection, and development.

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. Limited resources, corruption, and human trafficking networks hinder progress.

Complex regional dynamics and balancing migration control with human rights protection add to the difficulty.

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