More than 893 Gambian migrants lost their lives between January and December 2025, a migration activist has told a press conference.

Speaking at a press conference held at the National Youth Parliament, Ebrima Drammeh said 840 people died at sea, while 26 died on land.

He added that the victims were among passengers on 72 migrant boats that went missing without trace in 2025, including 26 carrying Gambians.

Mr Drammeh said the figures highlight the scale of the migration crisis facing young Gambians and the deadly risks of irregular migration.

His remarks came as authorities continue search and rescue operations following a migrant boat capsizing off the coast of Jinak village in the North Bank Region on 31 December 2025.

The activist said 102 people were rescued, with several survivors receiving urgent medical treatment, but seven bodies have so far been recovered.

He added that the exact number of passengers on board remains unclear.

He said the national emergency response plan had been activated and resources deployed to intensify rescue efforts and provide support to survivors.

Mr Drammeh extended condolences to bereaved families and praised the Gambia Navy, emergency response agencies, security services, health workers at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, and community volunteers, including local fishermen, for their role in the rescue operations.

He warned that the Jinak incident was a stark reminder that no journey or promise is worth the loss of life at sea, and urged the government to continue efforts to prevent irregular migration while creating safer and dignified opportunities for young people at home.

Mr Drammeh also said a full investigation would be carried out and that anyone found responsible would face legal action.

By Adama Makasuba