Thousands of Sub-Saharan Migrants Stranded in Tunisian Olive Groves, Hoping to Reach Europe

Thousands of sub-Saharan migrants have set up makeshift camps in Tunisian olive groves near the port city of Sfax, hoping to reach Europe despite facing anti-migrant violence, food shortages, and poor living conditions. Around 20,000 migrants are living in isolated areas near the towns of El Amra and Jebeniana, some 30-40 kilometers north of Sfax, which is a major departure point for irregular migration to Europe.

The migrants, mostly from countries like Cameroon, Guinea, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Sudan, have been living in tents made of tarpaulins and rods, sharing limited space and resources. They face numerous challenges such as lack of access to food, water, and basic necessities, as well as police harassment and the threat of deportation. After being forcibly removed from Sfax last autumn, the migrants set up camp in neighboring towns as they awaited their opportunity to make the perilous crossing to the Mediterranean Sea.

Why this matters: The situation in the makeshift camps highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by sub-Saharan migrants seeking a better life in Europe. It underscores the need for international cooperation and support to address the root causes of irregular migration and ensure the protection of migrants' rights and well-being.

Despite the dire living conditions, the migrants remain determined to continue their journey to Europe. "The reverse gear is broken," said one migrant, expressing his unwavering resolve to reach his destination, even if it means risking his life to cross the sea. Some have resorted to begging or relying on the solidarity of other migrants to survive, while others have considered swimming across the sea if necessary.

The article sheds light on the humanitarian crisis unfolding in these makeshift camps, with concerns about hygiene, births, and sickness among the migrants. The migrants, including women and children, have fled their home countries in search of a better life but now face the harsh realities of living in isolated olive groves, vulnerable to anti-migrant violence and police crackdowns. As Tunisian authorities recently raided and destroyed some of the encampments, the migrants' determination to reach Europe remains strong, despite the perilous journey that lies ahead.

Key Takeaways

• Thousands of sub-Saharan migrants in makeshift camps in Tunisia, hoping to reach Europe.
• Migrants face challenges like lack of food, water, and police harassment, but remain determined.
• Camps highlight ongoing humanitarian crisis, need for international cooperation to address root causes.
• Migrants have fled home countries, now vulnerable to violence and deportation in Tunisia.
• Despite harsh conditions, migrants continue their perilous journey, risking their lives to cross the sea.