Yapha urged that it should be a lesson that propels the recently ushered government to “work diligently on reducing the incentives for sea migration and to combat human smugglers”.
His solemn plea came amid an enormous tragedy that hit neighbouring Senegal, wherein a boat carrying more than a hundred migrants heading to Europe via the deadly sea capsized, leading to deaths. Search-and-rescue operations persist for corpses or potential survivors.
Yapha urged that the incident should be an eye-opener for the Senegalese government ushered in months ago, who must work towards putting an effectively enduring stop to the deadly migration.
“Unfortunately, Senegal, like The Gambia, has seen a rise in human smuggling in recent years. The damage this has caused to Senegal and The Gambia (Senegambia) far outweighs any perceived benefits,” he decried.
The activist urged everyone to “unite to join forces against these perilous voyages and the human traffickers behind them”.
He furthered: “As members of the diaspora, we must play our part in encouraging the youth back home to pursue education and secure their futures, rather than supporting or encouraging them to risk their lives at sea. Those who feel it, know it. This is indeed a tragedy. May all their souls rest in perfect peace.”
