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By Ezekiel David
Authorities in the Canary Islands fear a major surge in African migrant landings, which could lead to a humanitarian crisis.
Regional leader Fernando Clavijo warned that up to 150,000 more migrants could arrive by year’s end, adding to the over 20,000 who have already landed on the islands.
‘We are seeing (mass arrivals) in August with bad sea conditions,’ Clavijo said after meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. ‘In September, October, and November, it could be total distress,’ he added, citing warnings from aid groups regarding 150,000 people, many escaping violence in Mali, getting ready to undertake the perilous trek.
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The alarming forecast comes after 173 migrants were saved close to El Hierro Island, one of whom lost their life while making the dangerous crossing.
To address the underlying reasons for migration, Prime Minister Sanchez responded by announcing a diplomatic tour of West African countries, including Mauritania, Senegal, and the Gambia.
Data from Frontex reveals a 154% surge in arrivals compared to last year, with over 21,600 migrants reaching the islands in the first seven months of 2023. Clavijo stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that the Canary Islands ‘cannot support that pressure alone.’ He urged for legal changes to allow the transfer of unaccompanied minors to mainland Spain, emphasising the need for a swift resolution.
(Source: Reuters)
