Senegalese PM urges African youth to stay amid rising migrant deaths at sea

Earlier this week, nearly 90 migrants bound for Europe lost their lives when their vessel capsized off the Mauritanian coast, according to Le Figaro.

The devastating incident prompted Prime Minister Sonko to address the young population directly, emphasizing the dangers of such voyages and advocating for opportunities within Africa.

During a visit to Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis, northern Senegal, Sonko delivered a poignant speech to hundreds of young people. “Another shipwreck occurred off our shores, costing many young lives,” he stated solemnly.

“It’s regrettable, it’s deplorable. I once again appeal to the youth: your solution is not in the boats.” He stressed that “the future of the world is in Africa” and cautioned that “the countries some young people aspire to reach are themselves in crisis or on the brink of crisis.”

The gravity of the recent disaster was underscored by initial reports from Mauritanian coast guards, who recovered 89 bodies from a fishing boat that had capsized off the southwestern coast of Mauritania on Monday.

Survivors recounted that the vessel had departed from the border between Gambia and Senegal with 170 passengers aboard, leaving 72 people unaccounted for, as confirmed by AFP.

The treacherous Atlantic route has become increasingly frequented by migrants due to heightened surveillance in the Mediterranean.

This route is particularly hazardous because of strong winds and rough seas, which have claimed countless lives over the years.

Prime Minister Sonko’s impassioned plea aims to deter Senegalese youth from risking their lives on such dangerous journeys and to inspire them to seek opportunities within their home continent.

His message comes at a critical time, as many young Africans continue to embark on perilous migrations in search of a better future.