Migration Along the Eastern Corridor (July 2024)

Key findings in July 2024:

• In July, 28 people lost their lives while migrating through Djibouti. The majority of these deaths are attributed to harsh environmental conditions, including lack of adequate shelter, food, and water. The fatalities were reported in the regions of Obock (11), Tadjourah (14), Ali Sabieh (1), Holl (1), and Dikhil (1).

• A shipwreck occurred off the coast of Yemen on 24 July, causing 16 fatalities, including 12 recovered bodies and four people presumed dead at sea. According to the survivors, the vessel, carrying Ethiopian migrants predominantly from the Tigray region, capsized near the Dubab district of the Ta’iz governorate due to strong winds and a malfunctioning engine. Six survivors were identified and the recovered bodies were buried by local authorities.

• All movements due to conflict in July and migrating through Ethiopia departed from Amhara (85%) and Oromia (15%).

• A new MRC was opened in Dewele to meet the needs of people moving through the Somali region. Data collection on registered migrants began in July 2024.

• In July, nearly half (47%) of people on the move who registered for assistance in Bossasso were children. Of these children, 18% were travelling unaccompanied (all in Bossaso).

• Migrant arrivals from the Horn of Africa in Yemen decreased by 26% between June and July as strong winds and high tides made it difficult to take the maritime routes towards Yemen from Djibouti and Somalia. As a result, the number of stranded migrants in Djibouti and Somalia increased by 9% and 8% respectively.

• Migrants in Aden reported severe abuse and exploitation during their journey, and in Rasala’ar, some migrants were subjected to physical assault or torture in smuggler dens, witnessed sexual violence against women, and saw a man die due to extortion.