Thousands of migrants from sub-Saharan Africa have converged in the Tunisian governorate of Sfax, all with the shared aspiration of reaching Europe. Vincent, an Ivorian migrant, recounted his arduous seven-month journey, navigating through Mali, Niger, and the Algerian desert before reaching Sfax. However, his voyage was abruptly halted by Tunisian authorities at sea last weekend.
Undeterred by the setback, Vincent, resolute in his determination, vowed to persist in his pursuit of reaching Europe, declaring that only death could thwart his ambitions. His sentiments echo those of many others in similar circumstances, driven by desperation and hope for a better life across the Mediterranean.
The presence of thousands of irregular migrants in and around Sfax has sparked controversy and raised concerns among the local populace and Tunisian public opinion. Haji, a migrant from Sierra Leone acting as a spokesperson for one of the camps, emphasized their collective resolve to reach Europe and appealed to Tunisian authorities to facilitate their passage.
Sfax, renowned for its economic vitality along the Mediterranean coast, has become a focal point for sub-Saharan African migrants. Across makeshift camps in areas like El Amra and Jebeniana, thousands await their chance to embark on the perilous journey across the Mediterranean.
The Tunisian Coast Guard has been actively intercepting and rescuing migrants attempting to cross maritime borders, with over 21,500 migrants intercepted in the first four months of 2024 alone. Sudanese migrants constitute a significant portion of those attempting the journey, comprising over 65% of total interceptions.
Local concerns are also mounting, particularly among landowners near encampments, who lament damage to olive groves and crops caused by the increasing proximity of migrant settlements to the shore. Civil society activists, like Mohamed Ben Farah, advocate for solutions to reclaim land and address the challenges posed by migrant influx.
Despite the presence of over 9,000 registered refugees and asylum seekers in Tunisia, many migrants in Sfax feel abandoned, with little support from humanitarian organizations or governmental authorities. Haji voiced their frustrations, highlighting the gap between promises and actions, as they continue to await tangible assistance and solutions to their plight.