A tragic incident off the coast of Djibouti has claimed the lives of 38 migrants, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The ship carrying migrants capsized on its journey to Yemen, a common route for migrants.
The IOM reported that 22 individuals were rescued from the shipwreck, while search efforts continue for six others who were believed to be on board.
Yvonne Ndege, spokesperson for the IOM, expressed sorrow over the loss of lives, noting that many of the victims were women, children, and infants.
Survivors are receiving assistance from the IOM and local authorities to cope with the trauma of the ordeal.
Djibouti serves as a transit point for migrants from the Horn of Africa, including Ethiopia and Somalia, seeking opportunities in Gulf countries. Conflict, insecurity, and climate change are cited as key reasons prompting people to embark on such perilous journeys.
The route to Yemen is fraught with dangers, with migrants often falling prey to traffickers and facing risks such as abduction, arrest, and recruitment by armed groups, particularly in Yemen.
