After Watching 10 Migrants Die at Sea, He Now Pleads: ‘Stay’

For The New York Times, December 2023, Senegal – 

In Senegal, where economic hardship and limited opportunities prevail, migration has become a defining phenomenon, namely in the fishing communities, impacted by increasing scarcity of the natural ressources. Many young Senegalese are lured by the promise of a better life abroad despite the high human cost marked by tragedy and loss on their seiling journey to Europe. Moustapha Diouf, a 54-year old former fisherman deeply impacted by witnessing the deaths of 10 migrants and friends on a boat bound for Spain 17 years ago, made it his mission to dissuade others from embarking on perilous journeys. Through his nonprofit organization he created after coming back from the Canary Islands where he was imprisoned and deported to Senegal, Moustapha tirelessly advocates for Senegal’s youth, providing vocational training and educational outreach programs among the community of Thiaroye-sur-Mer, on the outskirts of the capital city Dakar. Despite facing obstacles and unfulfilled promises of government support, Moustapha remains steadfast in his efforts to raise awareness and offer alternatives to migration. His dedication has not only saved lives but also sparked crucial conversations about the root causes of migration. As Senegal grapples with the complexities of migration and its social and political implications, individuals like Moustapha Diouf serve as beacons of resilience and compassion. Their tireless efforts remind us of the urgent need for meaningful action to address the underlying issues driving migration and to create a more equitable and just society for all. “I will fight every day to stop young people from leaving.”, says Moustapha.

– To be found here.