Mogadishu (KAAB TV) — At least 20 Somali migrants have died in the Atlantic Ocean while attempting to reach the coastal city of Palma in Spain, authorities confirmed on Friday.
Only two survivors were rescued from a boat carrying more than twenty people, all of whom were fleeing widespread unemployment and limited opportunities in Somalia, according to Spanish media reports.
The victims were reportedly from the Puntland and SSC-Khatumo regions. The overcrowded vessel had drifted for several days before it was discovered by rescue teams.
Years of economic hardship, poor governance, and a lack of justice and opportunity in Somalia have contributed to a growing wave of irregular migration. Many young Somalis have lost hope in building a future at home, prompting an increasing number to risk their lives in search of better prospects in Europe.
Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and criticized the current government for failing to provide viable opportunities for Somali youth. He accused the administration of neglecting its responsibilities and failing to create dignified living conditions.
This tragedy follows a similar incident in the Indian Ocean near Madagascar just months ago, where 24 Somali migrants perished while attempting to migrate abroad in search of a better life.