By Towncriernews
At least 69 people, including 25 Malians,
have reportedly died after a makeshift
boat capsized while attempting to
reach Spain from West Africa off the
coast of Morocco, Mali’s authorities
have confirmed
The boat was carrying approximately
80 people, but only 11 survivors were
rescued, according to a statement
from Mali’s Ministry of Malians Abroad
The ministry said of the survivors, at
least nine are from Mali.
The tragedy occurred last week, but the
ministry formally confirmed the incident
on Thursday, Towncriernews, gathered.
It was also gathered that a crisis unit
has been dispatched to monitor the
situation and assist those affected.
Mali has faced years of political and
security instability, including jihadist
violence and separatist uprisings, which
have led to two military coups in 2020
and 2021.
While the ruling junta initially promised
elections by March 2024, the country
remain in turmoil, with much of its
Northern and Eastern Regions still
ungovernable.
Economic hardship, unemployment, and
the impact of climate change on
agriculture have driven many Malians to
seek better opportunities abroad, often
embarking on perilous journey across the
sea.
The Atlantic route, stretching from the
coasts of Mauritania and Morocco to
Spain, is one of deadliest migration paths
in the world.
Spanish human rights group Caminando
Froneras reports that over 10,000
people have died attempting to reach
Spain by boat this year alone,
averaging 30 deaths daily.
The group further noted that many
migrants attempting this dangerous
crossing come from sub-Sharan
Africa, fleeing from conflict and poverty.
At its closest point, Morocco is just eight
8 nautical miles (14 km) from Spain,
making it a popular yet treacherous
route for those seeking a new life in
Europe.