“The alarming increase in migrant arrivals from the Senegalese coast to the Canaries continues to cause concern. Recently, the moving story of Abdoulaye Thimbo Samb, a renowned Senegalese actor, has drawn attention to this growing problem Indeed, he was shocked to discover that his older brother had undertaken the dangerous journey to reach the Spanish archipelago.
For Abdoulaye Thimbo Samb, this story is all the more personal since he himself made this risky journey in 2006, during the “cayucos crisis”. At the time aged 17, he had endured difficult months, sleeping on the streets and struggling to feed himself. His success as an actor allowed him to escape from this precarious situation, but he never imagined that his brother would face the same ordeals.
The road between Senegal and the Canary Islands is considered one of the most dangerous in the world. Migrants often find themselves crammed into makeshift boats, risking their lives. Unfortunately, their desperation and the desire for a better future push them to take this risk.
The story of a reunion between Abdoulaye Thimbo Samb and his brother raises the question of the involvement of the international community in the management of this migration crisis. The Canaries are facing a massive influx of migrants, mainly from Senegal, and reception infrastructures are overwhelmed. It is therefore essential to find lasting solutions to help these populations fleeing poverty, conflicts and precariousness.
While the world often focuses on numbers and statistics, it is important not to forget the human aspect of this crisis. Every migrant has a story, a family and aspirations. The discovery of the situation of Abdoulaye Thimbo Samb and his brother reminds us that behind the statistics hide individuals in search of a better life.
It is time for the international community to mobilize more to provide a humane and united response to this migration crisis. In collaboration with the governments of the countries concerned, global solutions must be found in order to offer secure alternatives for these migrants, while addressing the root causes of their migration.
In the meantime, Abdoulaye Thimbo Samb is doing everything he can to support his brother and offer him a better future. Her story is a poignant reminder of the family bonds that transcend boundaries and difficulties. We hope that his testimony will help to raise awareness of this tragic situation and encourage action for a fairer and more welcoming world.”