Africa in the News

Senegal, Africa’s westernmost country, has become a major departure point of thousands of mainly West Africans seeking a better life. Recently (June, 2006), a large group of Africans were detained by Spanish authorities as the boast was attempting to reach the Canary Islands.

It is estimated that 50-60 people, usually younger males, are grouped in small wooden fishing vessels/dowels. The risky sea journey is approximately 1,350 kms or about 850 miles north. Apparently the number of Africans attempting this trek has increased dramatically after Morocco clamped down on illegal migration. It is estimated that over 7000 Africans have reached the Canaries this year.