Perils of the backway journey: A perfidious path for Gambian youth

Mali, a fellow West African country to Gambia, has been plagued by Islamic terrorists and criminal networks.

Travelling through Mali exposes migrants to the risk of robbery, betrayal and financial loss. As an individual seeking illegal migration, you may become an easy target for criminals who exploit vulnerable migrants.

Niger, another transit country on the backway route, has recently implemented a military government that is determined to crack down on illegal migration to the West.

The government’s stance against illegal migration raises questions about their support for individuals who want to leave Africa behind.

Travelling through Niger puts migrants at risk of facing the pursuit of authorities who are passionate about curbing illegal migration.

The Sahara Desert, a vast and unforgiving expanse, presents numerous dangers for migrants.

Wicked individuals, often associated with organ hunters, lurk in the desert, seeking to profit from the sale of human organs in countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

As an illegal traveller, you have no rights and are vulnerable to exploitation.

The Sahara Crossing is plagued by intense heat, breakdowns, and the threat of violence from fellow migrants desperate for survival.

In this harsh environment, even a bottle of water can become a matter of life and death.

The backway journey involves crossing the Mediterranean sea, overloaded and unsafe boats pose a significant risk to migrants.

Many have perished at sea, making this crossing another deadly obstacle.

European border patrols, tasked with intercepting illegal migrants, do not always provide assistance and have been known to resort to violence.

If you manage to reach Europe, there is a high likelihood of immediate deportation due to your illegal entry.

It is crucial to recognise that the backway journey is not the only path to a better future.

There are thousands of alternative ways to build a brighter future without subjecting oneself to such life-threatening risks.

If you find yourself in a desperate situation, consider exploring legal avenues and seeking assistance from organizations that can provide support and guidance.

Meanwhile, expanding youth populations and lack of economic opportunity, political instability and conflict have all contributed to the growth of irregular migration from Africa to Europe over the last decade.

The legal pathways for migration are limited and so the most common way for young people to migrate from West Africa to Europe is through what is referred to as the ‘backway’.

So perilous is the journey through West Africa, across the Sahara desert, and into Libya, from where youth attempt to catch boats to Italy and other European destinations, with each stage involving multiple risks.