Mogadishu, Somalia – November 23, 2024: The Somali government has confirmed a heartbreaking tragedy off the coast of the Indian Ocean, where two boats carrying Somali immigrants capsized near the small island of Nosy Iranja, located off the coast of Madagascar. The incident, which claimed the lives of at least 24 Somali citizens, is a grim reminder of the dangers faced by many Somalis who embark on perilous journeys in search of better opportunities abroad.
Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, and Minister for Information, Daud Aweis, both confirmed the tragedy today. According to the ministers, the two boats, which were carrying 70 Somali nationals, capsized in rough seas. One boat was reported to have carried 38 people, while the other had 32 passengers. The exact details of where the boats originated from remain unclear, but the government has launched an investigation into the incident to identify those responsible for organizing the perilous voyage.
Minister Aweis stated that the government is committed to bringing those responsible to justice and has already reached out to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to assist in facilitating the return of the survivors to Somalia. The tragic incident has left many families mourning the loss of loved ones, and both ministers sent heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families, assuring the public that the government would provide necessary support to the affected families.
“This is an extremely tragic loss of life, and our thoughts are with the families of those who have perished. We are working closely with the IOM to ensure the safe return of those who survived,” said Minister Aweis.
The incident highlights the ongoing dangers faced by Somali migrants, many of whom are fleeing economic hardship and seeking a better future in Europe or other parts of the world. Despite the risks, thousands of young Somalis continue to fall prey to human smugglers, who profit from the illicit trade of transporting people across dangerous waters.
The Somali government has long struggled with the challenge of addressing the root causes of irregular migration, such as high unemployment, lack of economic opportunities, and instability. Many Somali youth, frustrated by limited job prospects and the dire economic situation, resort to these dangerous journeys in the hope of a better life.
The tragedy also comes at a time when Somalia is taking steps to address the issue of irregular migration at the international level. Recently, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed a memorandum of understanding with Germany to facilitate the return of Somali migrants from Europe, underlining the government’s commitment to improving conditions for citizens both at home and abroad.
The Somali government has vowed to intensify its efforts to combat human trafficking and ensure safer migration routes for its citizens. As investigations into the capsizing continue, the government’s focus remains on protecting its citizens and addressing the root causes of such tragedies.
