Venturing into the sea with the intention of reaching Europe is said to be a horrific sacrifice of life. These sea journeys generally prove unsuccessful as majority of travellers lose their lives.       

Victims of this disastrous venture are predominantly young people who form the country’s youthful and energetic population. Operation No Back Way to Europe (ONBWE), in their efforts to cut down the escalating rate of illegal migration in the country, recently concluded its annual sensitisation campaign on illegal migration at Basse Dampha Kunda, URR. The association comprises of young people who are working to redirect their colleagues towards worthy ventures. The sensitisation was organised in collaboration with The Gambia Police Force and the Immigration Department.

Momodou S Kah, deputy governor of Upper River Region said the sensitisation would play a vital role in the reduction of people engaging on the risky venture. Deputy Governor Kah used the occasion to call on the young people of the region to distance themselves from illegal migration and to embrace education or skills trainings where they can gain respect and knowledge.

Bubacarr Jabbie, chairman of Operation No Back Way to Europe, dilated on his personal experiences of illegal migration. He dilated the recent incident of a capsized boat on the Libyan seas, where a good number of Gambian youths lost their lives.  Jabbie further used the platform to discourage families from financing such journeys for their young ones. He then said that the youths should capitalise on utilising and exploring the necessary opportunities that are available for them in the country.

ASP Yamundaw Jagne Joof, officer commanding at the Child Welfare Unit, expounded on the need to bring children up well. According to her, giving children worthy and lasting opportunities, such as education, will go a long way in helping them to be responsible role models in society. ASP Sulayman Secka, PRO of the Gambia Police Force, called on the people of the region to live together in peace and harmony. He also urged them to respect and value the African tradition. Other speakers at the gathering included Spt Madinding Fatty. The Basse Dampha Kunda ward councillor gave the vote of thanks.