They were among the over 200 passengers on the boat that capsized on New Year's Eve, bound for Europe.
The survivors recounted the traumatic journey, describing the overcrowded and dilapidated boat, which was not equipped for the perilous Atlantic route. They spoke of the desperation that drove them to embark on this treacherous path, seeking better opportunities in Europe.
The boat's capsizing resulted in the loss of at least 31 lives, with many others still missing. The survivors are receiving medical attention, while authorities continue to search for those unaccounted for.
Their stories highlight the risks and challenges migrants face attempting to reach Europe, often fleeing poverty, unemployment, and lack of opportunities in their home countries.
Lamin Fatty shared his harrowing experience of taking the "Back way" journey to Europe.
He described the traumatic journey, recounting the overcrowded and dilapidated boat that capsized off The Gambia's coast on New Year's Eve, claiming 31 lives.
Fatty spoke of desperation driving him to risk his life, seeking better opportunities in Europe due to poverty and lack of prospects at home. He survived the tragedy but lost friends and fellow passengers.
His story highlights the risks migrants take, fleeing hardship and seeking a better life. Fatty's account serves as a testament to the dangers of irregular migration and the need for solutions to address root causes like poverty and unemployment.
"I was able to escape because I know how to swim and I was able to balance myself before we were rescued," he said, describing the moments after the boat capsized.
Fatty's ability to swim helped him survive the ordeal, but many others weren't as fortunate. His account further highlights the desperation and risks migrants take, and the importance of addressing the root causes driving them to such dangerous journeys.
Alagie Marong, another survivor of the tragedy, shared his heartbreaking story of taking the "Back way" to Europe.
He spoke of desperation, seeking a better life due to poverty and lack of opportunities back home.
Marong described the overcrowded boat, inadequate for the perilous journey. He recounted the traumatic experience of the capsizing, losing friends and fellow passengers.
Like Lamin Fatty, Marong credits his survival to luck and resilience. His story sheds light on the harsh realities driving migrants to risk everything for a chance at a better life.
Kajali Camara, a survivor, said his friends in Europe inspired him to take the "Back way". "They're supporting their families back home, and he wanted a better life too. He saw an opportunity to help his loved ones and took the risk".
Camara's story highlights the influence of social networks and success stories in driving migration decisions. He indicated that many Gambians are inspired by peers who made it to Europe and are now supporting their families.
