Around 70 people are reported missing after a migrant boat sank in Moroccan waters while en route to Spain. Among the victims were 25 Malians, as confirmed by Mali’s government. The incident occurred on 19 December. This marks another dark chapter in the perilous journey many undertake in search of a better life.
According to Mali’s Ministry for Malians Abroad and African Integration, the ill-fated vessel carried 80 people when it capsized. Only 11 survivors have been found, nine of whom are Malian nationals. Mossa Ag Attaher, Mali’s minister in charge, revealed these details in a statement shared on social media. “Regrettably, 25 young Malians have been formally identified among the deceased,” he said, extending condolences to the grieving families and offering prayers for the departed souls.
To manage the aftermath, Mali’s government has established a crisis unit to monitor developments and provide updates. This tragic incident has once again spotlighted the deadly risks faced by migrants attempting to cross dangerous waters.
Since Christmas Eve, at least 961 migrants have arrived in the archipelago aboard 20 precarious boats. These journeys often originate from Mali, Gambia, Senegal, and Mauritania—a key departure point in recent months. Despite rescue efforts, fatalities remain common; one individual died during a crossing just this week.
Sharp increase for the Atlantic migration route
The Atlantic migration route spans from the coasts of West Africa to Spain’s Canary Islands. This has seen a sharp increase in usage this year. Migrants, predominantly from sub-Saharan Africa, are driven to undertake this journey by a combination of factors, including prolonged conflict in the Sahel region, widespread unemployment, and the devastating effects of climate change on agricultural livelihoods.
Deadliest route
However, this route is notoriously hazardous. The Atlantic’s unpredictable currents, coupled with the use of makeshift and overcrowded boats, make it one of the deadliest migration pathways in the world. The scale of the migration crisis is further underscored by a new report from Caminando Fronteras, which reveals that over 10,000 migrants died attempting to reach Spain by sea in 2024—a devastating 58% increase compared to the previous year. According to the Spanish NGO, nearly 9,757 migrants died attempting to reach the Canary Islands along this route in 2024. This accounts for 9 out of every 10 fatalities among those attempting to reach Spanish shores. Tragically, 1,538 children and 421 women are among the victims, with April and May emerging as the deadliest months.
Mauritania as growing departure point
The report also highlights Mauritania as a growing departure point for migrant vessels, with Spain pledging €210 million earlier this year to help the country curb human trafficking. Despite such measures, the number of sea arrivals to Spain has risen by 12%. Furthermore, over 57,700 migrants reached the country’s shores by mid-December.
Canary Islands government and NGO’s urge for help
The governement of the Canary Islands and NGOs emphasised several times the urge for coordinated international efforts to address the root causes of irregular migration. The ongoing conflicts in regions like the Sahel, compounded by economic hardships and environmental degradation, leave many with little choice but to risk everything for the chance of a better future. Until so far the adequacy of existing migration policies and rescue efforts are falling short.