Missing Persons Crisis in Africa: Over 71,000 Disappearances Recorded

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has revealed a deeply concerning trend: over 71,000 people are registered as missing across Africa, a stark 75% increase since 2019. The ICRC’s Regional Director for Africa, Patrick Youssef, highlighted the alarming statistics, emphasizing the devastating impact on families left in despair. The surge in missing persons is attributed to ongoing armed conflicts, natural disasters, and perilous migration journeys. The ICRC emphasizes the responsibility of state authorities to clarify the fate and whereabouts of missing persons. While acknowledging the complex circumstances, the organization underscores the urgent need for action to address this human crisis.