By Makutu Manneh
Irregular migration from The Gambia is reportedly on the decline due to adverse weather conditions at sea, according to migration advocate Ebrima Drammeh. However, he warned that despite the risks, many individuals continue to attempt the perilous journey.
Speaking to Kerr Fatou about the current state of irregular migration, commonly referred to as the “backway,” Drammeh explained that cold and rough sea conditions have temporarily discouraged departures.
He noted, however, that many migrants plan their journeys during or after Ramadan, believing sea conditions are most stable then.
Still, he noted that departures have not stopped entirely. “Just these days, a boat left from Brufut,” Drammeh said, adding that another vessel carrying more than 100 people left Bafuloto on January 12, 2026. Nearly four weeks later, no word has been received from that group.
Authorities and international organizations have been notified. “We have informed the Salvamento Maritimo and Alarmphone ten days ago, but up to date there is no information about them,” Drammeh said.
He praised Gambian security forces for their efforts to curb dangerous sea crossings but acknowledged the difficulty of halting the practice entirely.
Irregular migration remains a pressing challenge in The Gambia, fueled by high youth unemployment, widespread poverty, and the hope of better opportunities in Europe. The country has become a key departure point for African migrants seeking passage abroad, with nearly 2,000 leaving in November 2025 alone and hundreds dying annually attempting the journey.
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