A ‘Back Way’ Survivor’s Story
Ousman Jallow sits underneath the shade of a mango tree in Sukuta Nema, his eyes heavy with the burden of a journey that continues to hang-out him.
The “back way”, as it’s known as, affords hope and alternative, an opportunity to flee poverty and construct a greater future. For Jallow, nevertheless, it turns right into a harrowing story of loss, survival, and unfulfilled desires.
“The journey is unbearable,” he begins, his voice low and regular.
“Every border feels like a test of survival. Even with a national ID card, I have to pay at every checkpoint. My pocket money runs out long before I reach my destination.”
The price of the journey is greater than monetary—it’s deeply private. Jallow loses his brother alongside the best way, a tragedy that leaves a everlasting scar.
“We start this journey together, dreaming of a better life. But I return alone,” he says, his eyes welling up with tears.
When he reaches Libya, his ordeal takes a good darker flip. He spends one month and 29 days in jail, enduring situations he describes as dehumanising. “Every day in that prison feels like a year. The beatings, the hunger, the hopelessness—it’s something I wouldn’t wish on anyone,” he says.
Gambian Migrants
Jallow’s story is considered one of 1000’s of failed migrant ordeals. The Gambia, considered one of Africa’s smallest nations, has a excessive charge of irregular migration relative to its inhabitants.
According to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), over 35,000 Gambians arrive in Europe between 2014 and 2018 by way of the perilous Central Mediterranean route. This determine represents about 1.5% of the nation’s inhabitants, a staggering quantity for such a small nation.
Libya stays a important transit level for Gambian migrants. Many endure horrific abuses in detention facilities run by smugglers and militias.
A 2023 IOM report highlights that just about 2,000 Gambians are nonetheless stranded in Libya, with many pleading for repatriation.
Despite authorities campaigns to discourage irregular migration, the attract of the again manner persists. Youth unemployment in The Gambia stands at roughly 41%, in keeping with the World Bank, leaving many younger folks with few choices to enhance their lives.
The Pain of Returning
When Jallow returns to The Gambia, he hopes for solace, however actuality proves disappointing.
“Coming back feels like another kind of prison,” he admits. “Nothing changes here. There are no opportunities, no jobs, no hope. If I have the chance, I will go back. I have unfinished business—to find the life I set out for.”
His story displays the systemic points driving younger Gambians to threat the whole lot for a dream that always turns right into a nightmare. He speaks passionately about these nonetheless trapped in Libyan prisons, urging the federal government to behave.
“Our brothers and sisters are suffering in Libya. They want to come home, but they have no way out. The government must help them. We are Gambians—we deserve a chance to live with dignity,” he says.
The Unrelenting Allure of the Back Way
Jallow explains that the “back way” won’t finish anytime quickly.
“This journey will never stop,” he says with certainty. “For some Libyans, pushing boats to Italy is their livelihood. As long as desperation exists here, people will take the risk.”
But Jallow’s plea goes past rescue; it’s a name for transformation. He urges the federal government to deal with the foundation causes pushing younger folks to flee.
“The youth are not useless,” he says. “We need jobs, opportunities, and support. Give us a chance to show what we can do.”
A Message of Resilience and Hope
As the solar units over Sukuta Nema, Jallow leaves a heartfelt message for Gambians overseas.
“Never forget where you come from,” he says. “Even in the darkest times, our roots give us strength. And one day, we must find a way to make this home what it should be—a place of hope, not despair.”
Ousman Jallow’s story is a reminder of the price of desires deferred and the resilience of those that refuse to surrender, even within the face of unimaginable odds.
It additionally underscores the pressing want for systemic change to deal with the plight of Gambian youth and the dangers they’re keen to take for an opportunity at a greater life.
By Adama Makasuba
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