Monday, October 12, 2026 -A devastating maritime disaster off the coast of Djibouti has claimed at least 109 lives after a boat carrying hundreds of migrants capsized while travelling towards Yemen. The vessel was carrying approximately 305 people when it overturned near Guhere, north of the port town of Obock, during the night of October 8–9, 2026. At least 15 children were among those initially reported dead, while more than 80 people survived.
The tragedy has triggered an urgent search-and-rescue operation as authorities race to locate those still missing. The death toll has since risen to at least 139, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), with 84 people still unaccounted for.
The boat was carrying migrants seeking better economic opportunities and hoping eventually to reach wealthier Gulf countries. Many people from Ethiopia and other parts of the Horn of Africa travel through Djibouti before crossing the Gulf of Aden to Yemen, despite the dangers along the route.
The IOM said overcrowding was a major factor in the latest disaster, while survivors described the terrifying incident to aid workers. Emergency teams are assisting survivors with medical care and psychological support, while Djiboutian authorities continue rescue operations and arrange burials for those who died.
The tragedy has renewed urgent calls for safer migration routes and stronger international efforts to protect vulnerable people undertaking dangerous sea crossings. According to the IOM, more than 900 migrants died or went missing along this migration corridor in 2025 alone.
With conflict, economic hardship and instability continuing to drive people from their homes, the latest disaster highlights the desperate risks many are willing to take in search of a better future. As search operations continue, families are left waiting for news of loved ones, while humanitarian organisations urge governments to expand safe and legal migration options to prevent further loss of life.
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