Senegal pirogue capsizes off Lompoul, over 30 dead

A pirogue that departed Saint-Louis three days prior for the Canary Islands capsized on Saturday, November 7, off Lompoul. 11 bodies were recovered on Sunday morning, November 8, raising the death toll to over 30. The vessel capsized in rough seas near Léona commune in Kébémer department. Most victims were from Léona and Thiéppe, with only one survivor reported.

Member of Parliament Abdou Mbow stated that the incident is a consequence of the executive and legislative branches arguing over the Revised Finance Law. He claimed the state and the National Assembly failed the youth, who embark on such perilous journeys due to unfulfilled promises of jobs and dignity. Mbow criticized the authorities' response as a mere statement of regret, noting the Interior Minister's planned visit to Lompoul on Monday.

Mbow linked the Lompoul tragedy to a separate incident on Saturday, November 7, where 142 migrants, including women and children, were intercepted near Dakar heading for Spain. He argued that the youth choose to risk death at sea over a slow death of despair, accusing the government of indifference and prioritizing political calculations for 2029. Mbow warned of more such tragedies if the current political climate persists.

Why it mattersOver 30 Senegalese migrants died when their pirogue capsized off Lompoul while attempting to reach the Canary Islands.

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