Over 60 migrants died in boat sinking near Spain, Malian minister says

More than 60 migrants lost their lives earlier this month when a boat attempting to reach Spain capsized, Mali’s minister for the diaspora confirmed on Thursday.

In a press release, Mossa Ag Attaher announced that the incident occurred last Thursday, Only 11 survivors were rescued out 80 onboard the vessel, according to him.

Among the victims, 25 have been identified as Malian nationals, while nine Malians were rescued.

“25 young Malians have unfortunately been formally identified among the victims,” the minister stated.

The Atlantic migration route to Spain’s Canary Islands is considered one of the deadliest in the world. 

Located closer to Africa than mainland Spain, the archipelago is viewed as a stepping stone to continental Europe.

Many migrants undertaking this dangerous journey come from West African nations such as Mali, Senegal and Mauritania, seeking better livelihoods or fleeing violence and political unrest.

Some of the Malian victims originated from the Kayes region in western Mali, according to ministry adviser Doulaye Keita.

“Among the 25 Malians dead, there are eight Malians from my commune,” said Mamadou Siby, mayor of the Marena commune in the Kayes region.

Speaking to AP, Siby explained that the deceased had left their community seven months ago to work in Mauritania’s construction industry.

“These dead young men left my commune seven months ago to work in the construction industry in Mauritania.”

“Unfortunately, they were in contact with their friends in Europe and America, who encouraged them to come to these countries, and in most cases, they took the perilous journey without even informing their families back home,” Siby added.

Additional sources • AP