Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 13 February 2015: The African Union Commission Chairperson H.E Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma expresses her deep regrets and sorrow following the disappearance, on 10 February 2015, of over 300 migrants in the Mediterranean Sea, off the Lampedusa Island. The accident occurred while they were they were migrating to Europe.

The Chairperson of the AU Commission said the shocking tragedy demonstrates, once again, the urgent need for African States to strengthen measures to combat human trafficking. She urges countries to deploy every effort in combating human trafficking, including by creating incentives to discourage Africans, particularly, the youths from embarking on this most dangerous migratory route.

Dr. Dlamini Zuma calls for the urgent identification and dismantling of criminal networks exploiting the desperation of the potential migrants for their selfish economic gains.

Extending her condolences to the bereaved families and friends, the Chairperson of the AU Commission also calls on concerned parties, including those in and out of the continent, to engage more with each other in more pragmatic dialogue and consultation, and work together toward achieving a more durable solution to the challenge of human trafficking and smuggling.

JEE/