The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed deep sorrow following the deaths of at least 139 people, including 15 children, after a migrant boat capsized off the coast of Djibouti late last week.
In a statement, UNICEF said it was deeply saddened by the tragedy, which has once again highlighted the dangers faced by migrants and children undertaking perilous journeys in search of safety and better opportunities.
Eva Hinds, UNICEF’s Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, issued the statement following the incident, expressing concern over the loss of life and the impact of such disasters on vulnerable populations, particularly children.
The tragedy underscores the risks associated with irregular migration, as people continue to undertake dangerous sea crossings that can end in devastating loss of life.
Children are particularly vulnerable during such journeys, facing heightened risks of drowning, separation from their families, exploitation and other dangers.
UNICEF continues to advocate for the protection of children on the move and calls for greater efforts to ensure their safety, dignity and access to essential support, regardless of their migration status.
The circumstances surrounding the boat’s capsizing and further details about the victims were not provided in the initial statement.
The incident adds to growing concerns over the safety of migrants travelling along dangerous routes in the Horn of Africa and beyond.
