By Matthew Ogadinma
At least 69 people, including 25 Malians, have died after a makeshift boat attempting to reach Spain from West Africa capsized 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. Of the survivors, at least nine are from Mali.
The tragedy occurred last week, but the ministry formally confirmed the incident on Thursday. 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 remains in turmoil, with much of its northern and eastern regions 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 journeys across the sea.
The Atlantic route, stretching from the coasts of Mauritania and Morocco to Spain, is one of the deadliest migration paths in the world.
Spanish human rights group Caminando Fronteras reports that over 10,000 people have died attempting to reach Spain by boat this year alone, averaging 30 deaths daily.
Many migrants attempting this dangerous crossing come from sub-Saharan Africa, fleeing conflict and poverty.
At its closest point, Morocco is just eight nautical miles (14 kilometers) from Spain, making it a popular yet treacherous route for those seeking a new life in Europe.
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