Somali authorities have reported that the death toll from the November 23 migrant boat disaster near Madagascar has risen to 28. Currently, 47 survivors, including 26 women and 31 men, are being housed in a sports facility on Nosy Be Island. Somalia is coordinating with Malagasy officials to facilitate their repatriation.
The tragedy occurred near Nosy Iranja Island when two overcrowded boats capsized after being abandoned by smugglers. Local fishermen played a critical role in rescuing dozens of passengers. According to survivors, the smugglers had assured them of a quick journey to Mayotte, a French-administered territory, but left them stranded without food or water. Some survivors resorted to drinking seawater to survive.
Hiiraan Online reported that 23 victims were buried at sea, while five were laid to rest in Madagascar. Senior Somali officials have traveled to Madagascar to oversee repatriation efforts and assist survivors recovering from dehydration and emotional trauma.
Somalia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, emphasized the need for global cooperation to address the root causes of irregular migration. “This tragedy underscores the urgency of tackling poverty, conflict, and climate-related challenges that force our citizens to take such dangerous risks,” he said.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud called the disaster a sobering reminder of the perils faced by those seeking better opportunities. He urged the international community to address migration’s root causes comprehensively.
The ill-fated journey began in Mogadishu and passed through Nairobi and Mombasa. Survivors recounted harrowing experiences, while families in Somalia mourn the loss of their loved ones. Among the victims was 26-year-old Fathi Hussein, whose sister Samira lamented, “She was terrified of the ocean. If only she had shared her plans with us.”
Tragedies like these are not rare. Earlier this year, a similar incident off Djibouti resulted in 38 deaths. The International Organization for Migration continues to warn about increasing fatalities among migrants fleeing hardship in the Horn of Africa.
Somali officials have vowed to support the survivors and address migration’s underlying issues. “We must unite to prevent such catastrophes and give our people a chance for a dignified life,” said Minister Omar.