By: Isatou Sarr
Seventy-four Gambian youths who attempted to migrate irregularly to Spain by sea are currently stranded in Morocco and have appealed to the Gambian government for urgent assistance to enable their return home.
The youths said they left Bafuloto on 11 November 2025 aboard a boat bound for Spain but were intercepted by Moroccan authorities on 19 November. They have since remained in Morocco for nearly three months under what they described as harsh and difficult living conditions.
According to the group, they are being accommodated in a refugee camp where access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, and proper sanitation is limited. They said the situation has made daily life extremely challenging.
The migrants alleged that officials from the Gambian embassy had assured them that arrangements would be made for their repatriation, but little progress has been achieved. They said embassy officials have visited the camp only three times since their arrival.
“They first told us we would return home by December, then later fixed January 1, but we are still here,” one of the stranded youths said.
The group complained that they are served the same meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day and lack essential items, including adequate clothing and bedding. They added that they have no means of livelihood while in the camp.
Some of the migrants expressed concern over poor sanitation and limited access to water, claiming that the available water has caused skin rashes. They warned that prolonged exposure to such conditions could lead to health complications requiring medical attention upon their return.
The youths also compared their situation with that of Senegalese nationals in Morocco, saying the Senegalese embassy regularly visits its citizens and provides them with basic support.
They further claimed that Moroccan authorities informed them that arrangements had been made on their behalf, but that no response had been received from the Gambian embassy.
The stranded youths have now renewed their appeal to the Gambian government to urgently intervene and facilitate their safe and timely return home.
