Nosy Iranja, Madagascar, (SONNA) – The Ambassador of Somalia to Ethiopia and the African Union, Amb. Abdullahi Warfa reported that 22 Somali nationals lost their lives off the coast of Madagascar after two boats carrying 70 passengers suffered engine failure, leaving them stranded at sea.
On November 22, 2024, a drifting boat carrying 25 survivors—10 men and 15 women—was discovered near Nosy Iranja by Malagasy fishermen. According to survivors, the boats had departed Somalia on November 2, 2024, aiming to reach the Comoros Islands, specifically Mayotte.
The first boat, found near Nosy Iranja, carried 32 passengers. Seven passengers did not survive—two women died at sea and were thrown overboard, while five women died after reaching Nosy Iranja.
The second boat docked at the port of Cratère in Daresalam, Nosy Be, with 38 passengers. Only 23 survivors were accounted for, with 15 others presumed lost at sea.
In total, 48 people survived the ordeal and are now under medical supervision in Nosy Iranja and Daresalam.
Local authorities have extended their condolences to the victims’ families and expressed gratitude to the fishermen and responders who acted quickly to assist. Residents along Madagascar’s northwest coast are urged to remain vigilant and report any castaways or vessels in distress.
This incident underscores the dangers faced by those embarking on dangerous sea journeys in pursuit of a better future.
