A devastating boat disaster off the coast of Djibouti has resulted in the deaths of at least 109 migrants, including 15 children. The tragedy occurred overnight between October 8 and 9, north of the coastal town of Obock. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the boat was carrying approximately 350 people, mostly Ethiopian nationals, who were attempting to cross the Bab el-Mandeb Strait towards Yemen in search of economic opportunities.
Rescue teams have recovered 109 bodies, comprising 52 men, 42 women, and 15 children, including nine girls and six boys. More than 80 people survived the disaster and are receiving assistance. The IOM stated that search and rescue operations are ongoing for those still missing. Alexandre Coissac, IOM chief of mission in Djibouti, expressed condolences to the survivors and families who have lost loved ones or remain without news of their relatives.
The IOM is working alongside Djiboutian authorities to provide emergency assistance to survivors. Sixty-four survivors are currently receiving assistance at a migrant centre in Obock. The agency attributed the increasing movement of migrants along the dangerous route to poverty, insecurity, and the effects of climate change across the Horn of Africa. Many migrants undertake this journey despite the mounting instability across the Middle East.
The IOM reported that over 20,000 migrants crossed from Ethiopia into Djibouti between September 10 and early October. The agency noted that more than 900 migrants died or disappeared along the sea route to Yemen in 2025, while the number attempting the crossing increased by 18%. Another shipwreck in March 2026 left nine people dead and 45 missing.
Despite Yemen's prolonged conflict, thousands of migrants, particularly from Ethiopia and Somalia, continue to travel through Djibouti hoping to reach Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. The IOM appealed to international donors and humanitarian partners to strengthen support for Djibouti's emergency response, particularly search and rescue operations and assistance for survivors.
Authorities have yet to establish the precise cause of the latest disaster. The IOM continues to work with Djiboutian authorities to provide assistance to survivors and search for missing passengers. The agency's efforts focus on addressing the immediate needs of migrants and supporting the host community.
The incident highlights the dangers faced by migrants along this migration corridor. The IOM and other humanitarian organizations are working to provide support and assistance to migrants, but more efforts are needed to address the root causes of migration and ensure the safety of those undertaking the journey.
Key points
- At least 109 migrants, including 15 children, have died in the boat disaster off Djibouti's coast.
- Over 20,000 migrants crossed from Ethiopia into Djibouti between September 10 and early October.
- The IOM appealed for strengthened support for Djibouti's emergency response, including search and rescue operations and assistance for survivors.
