The sinking of the "Joola": Reflection and demands for justice in the lead-up to the 24th anniversary

At the memorial museum of the "Le Joola" ferry in Ziguinchor, imams, survivors, and bereaved families gathered for a day of prayer and remembrance, ahead of the 24th anniversary of the shipwreck. Blending spirituality, collective memory, and social demands, the testimonies underscored the magnitude of the tragedy and urged the state to fully assume its responsibilities towards the victims and their families.

The day was marked by intense emotion. From early morning, the region's imams led a reading of the Quran, followed by symbolic marches and collective prayers. Imam Cheikh Alioune Ndao, imam of the Grand Mosque of Boucotte and qadi of Ziguinchor, emphasized that this commemoration is first and foremost an act of faith and remembrance.

“Every year, we remember our departed. We hold collective prayers for them. May God increase his mercy towards them,” he declared, before calling on the authorities not to forget the families, widows, and orphans. For him, this tragedy must remain a trial shared by the entire nation and a reminder of the need for solidarity.

Samba Goundiam from Ziguinchor, a member of a victim's family, emphasized the need to consider the sinking of the "Joola" as "the greatest maritime tragedy in the world." He reiterated that the families are still waiting for answers regarding the remains and the establishment of a proper memorial museum.

“The state must address this; it’s the parents’ fight,” he insisted, adding that the memory of the missing cannot be honored without a serious response to their demands. He also stressed the importance of putting “the right people in the right places” to manage this sensitive issue, so that justice and dignity are restored to the victims.

Keita Ousmane, one of the 64 survivors, gave a harrowing testimony, filled with guilt and pain. He spoke of persistent nightmares, psychological difficulties, and the lack of socio-professional support.

“Some of us have to take a pill to sleep. Others have never found work after their studies. We would have liked the government or charities to come to our aid,” he confided. For him, strengthening families is more urgent than salvaging the boat.

He nevertheless praised the Senegalese people who, since September 27, 2002, have continued to support the victims and survivors, recalling that this popular solidarity remains an essential pillar for overcoming the ordeal.

The day concluded with a Christian vigil, illustrating the interreligious and communal dimension of the commemoration. Muslims and Christians, united in remembrance, demonstrated that the memory of the "Joola" transcends religious affiliations and remains a symbol of national fraternity.

At the memorial museum, prayers and testimonies reaffirmed that this tragedy must never be forgotten, but serve as a benchmark for building a more united and just society.

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