Three days after a tragic shipwreck off the coast of Mbour that claimed the lives of over 125 people, search efforts for survivors persist, though hopes are fading. In response, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye visited Mbour on Wednesday evening, visibly shaken by the gravity of the disaster.
President’s Address
“The nation is in mourning, and the situation is deeply unbearable,” President Faye said. “On behalf of the Senegalese people, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the grieving families. This tragedy, which has affected not just Mbour but other parts of the Senegalese coast, is the result of human trafficking networks. These networks exploit the desperation of young people, selling them false dreams of a better future.”
Public Criticism and Government Response
While the President condemned human trafficking, public frustration with the government is growing. Critics argue that the administration has neglected to address the unemployment crisis among Senegalese youth. Moussa Diakhaté, a human rights specialist and MP, expressed disappointment that his long-standing warnings had gone unheeded.
“Everything is falling apart,” Diakhaté remarked. “Our artisanal sector is collapsing, and the youth, facing bleak prospects, continue to leave because they were promised swift action once the government took power. Unfortunately, that promise has not been kept.”
Responsibility of Families
Diakhaté also pointed to the role of families, saying, “Let’s face the truth. Some parents, who contributed financially to send their children abroad, have indirectly played a part in their deaths. The truth is impartial.”
Authorities’ Commitment
To date, nearly 40 bodies have been recovered, 4 survivors found, and around fifty people remain missing. The government has vowed to take decisive action against those responsible for the human trafficking.
“The government is actively combating this issue,” President Faye assured. “We will relentlessly pursue these traffickers, these merchants of death, until they are held accountable.”
Community Reflection
As Mbour mourns the loss of its youth, Senegal faces one of its most severe migration crises in recent memory. The nation reflects on the devastating toll of this tragedy.
