The death toll from a migrant boat that capsized off the coast of Senegal has risen to 39 after rescuers recovered additional bodies, the country’s emergency services have confirmed.
The vessel overturned on Sunday, November 8, off the coastal town of Kébémer, north of the capital Dakar, while travelling from Saint-Louis in northern Senegal towards the Spanish coast.
Senegal’s Interior Ministry had initially reported that at least 21 people had died, with rescue teams continuing to search for survivors.
However, the death toll increased to 39 on Monday, November 9, following the discovery of more bodies.
Authorities said only one passenger had been rescued alive, while several others were still believed to be missing. The number of people who were aboard the boat has not been established.
The tragedy occurred along the Atlantic migration route used by thousands of West Africans attempting to reach Europe, particularly Spain’s Canary Islands, in search of better economic opportunities.
Many migrants undertake the dangerous journey in overcrowded, uncovered wooden boats, exposing themselves to rough seas and prolonged travel across the Atlantic Ocean.
High unemployment, poverty and limited economic opportunities have continued to push young people towards irregular migration despite the dangers associated with the crossing.
Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye expressed condolences to the families of those who died and pledged to intensify efforts to dismantle networks organising the dangerous journeys.
The government has also reiterated its commitment to strengthening cooperation with neighbouring countries to combat people-smuggling networks as search and rescue operations continue.
