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On the shore of Santa Cruz's Tenna Reef in Spain, Mamadu Mbakal spreads out his arms and glides across the water. For the 24-year-old, this is more than just a swim—it's a major achievement. Mbakal is one of dozens of African migrants taking swimming lessons offered by volunteers, following their treacherous journeys to Spain's Canary Islands. The Mali native arrived in Tenerife after a grueling six-day boat trip from Senegal, with over 200 others. "I wouldn't do it again," he says. "It's very difficult, very dangerous. It's a risk we took because we didn't have a choice. It's tough."
Why do they risk everything for a chance at a new life? What drives them to face such perilous odds? These are the questions that linger in the air as we delve into their stories.
For some migrants, the mere thought of getting back into the water evokes trauma. They spent days on cramped boats, and many lost loved ones along the way. Poge Balazar, part of a team of volunteers, is trying to help them work through their fears. "There are people who come with a terrible fear," she explains. "You see them entering the water, holding on to your hand as if clinging to life. Like anybody who doesn't know how to swim, you have to add to that their baggage of experience with a crossing of 10, 12, 15 days where they might have lost relatives or who knows what."
The route from Africa to the Canary Islands has become the fastest growing migration route in Europe. Between January and mid-July, the number of migrants arriving irregularly by sea to the region has jumped 160% from the previous year, reaching nearly 20,000 people, according to Spain's Interior Ministry. The Walking Borders migration rights group reported that nearly 5,000 migrants have died at sea on this route during the same period. The volunteers here hope to help 450 migrants reconcile with the water before the end of summer.
Yet, amidst the heart-wrenching statistics and stories of loss, there is a glimmer of hope. Jorge Bazar reminds us that behind the massive numbers, each migrant is an individual with dreams left behind. "It's amazing to see that in a few sessions you see changes and their gratitude, which gives you a huge boost of energy."
This journey of resilience and hope is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. As we witness the transformation of these migrants, we are reminded of the strength and determination that lies within each of us. So, as they conquer the waters, we are left to ponder: What can we do to support these brave individuals in their quest for a better life? How can we ensure that their dreams are not left behind but realized?
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