Tragedy on Lake Turkana: A Mother’s Heartbreak

The Heart-wrenching Loss

As the sun set over Lake Turkana, a mother sobbed and threw flowers into the greenish-blue water to remember her teenage daughter who had drowned trying to reach Kenya via a new route being used by people smugglers.

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Senait Mebrehtu, a Pentecostal Christian Eritrean who had sought asylum in Kenya three years ago, made the pilgrimage to north-western Kenya to see for herself where 14-year-old Hiyab had lost her life last year.

A Mother’s Anguish

• Ms. Senait arrived in Nairobi on a tourist visa, fleeing religious persecution.
• Her daughters, seeking to join her, fell victim to traffickers who took them on a perilous journey.
• Hiyab’s tragic death highlights the dangers faced by migrants seeking a better life.

The Perils of Migration

Eritrea, a highly militarized country, forces many to flee due to prolonged national service and forced labor.

With conflicts in neighboring countries, many Eritrean migrants see Kenya and Uganda as safe havens.

The Dark Realities of Smuggling

• Smugglers exploit desperate migrants, leading to tragic outcomes like Hiyab’s death.
• The new “digital route” via Lake Turkana poses additional risks for those seeking asylum.
• Smugglers profit at the expense of vulnerable individuals, perpetuating a cycle of exploitation.

Warning Signs and Hope for Change

The testimonies of survivors and witnesses shed light on the dangers migrants face on their journey.

Efforts to raise awareness about the perils of smuggling and provide support to vulnerable migrants are crucial.

Call to Action

• Authorities must crack down on smuggling networks to prevent further tragedies.
• Communities and organizations can offer support and resources to migrants in need.
• Educating individuals about safe migration options is essential in preventing future loss of life.

Healing and Moving Forward

Ms. Senait’s grief serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of migration.

May her story inspire change and compassion for those seeking refuge and a better future.