By ADDIS ABABA — African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has expressed profound sorrow following a devastating boat capsizing off the coast of Djibouti that claimed the lives of 109 migrants, including children, according to United Nations reports.
Offering his heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones, Mr. Youssouf emphasized the deep tragedy of the event while extending full solidarity to all communities impacted by the loss.
The disaster underscores the extreme risks taken by migrants traveling along one of the world’s most perilous maritime routes. In response, the Chairperson underscored the urgent necessity for strengthened regional and international cooperation.
He called on key stakeholders to address the underlying root causes of irregular migration, dismantle human trafficking networks, and combat migrant smuggling.
Mr. Youssouf urged all parties to uphold safe, orderly, and regular migration channels in line with African Union frameworks and established international commitments. Reaffirming the AU Commission’s dedication, he pledged continued collaboration with Member States and global partners to safeguard vulnerable populations—particularly children—and establish proactive measures to prevent future maritime tragedies.
