This is a heart rending story about the appalling plight of African migrants who are struggling to reach what they see as their only hope for salvation. They are driven by poverty, war, famine and a hope that pushes them on toward Europe where they believe they will, at least, have a chance for survival.

i cannot assess its accuracy but the story is quite poignant. the countries they are trying to reach are, as pres. bush might say, the 'haves' and 'have mores'. these persons are the 'have nots'. the sources used are those who experience the life/advocate for help there, without much explanation about the forces driving the events. However, we can use history, and current events to understand much. The story doesn't provide potential solutions; so far, not many exist.

It's a first hand report of what it's like for poor Africans who can't enter Europe. The writer is sympathetic, but does not cross the line into supporting what they were trying to do, force their way into a foreign land. Imagine the European enclave is your house and a mob wants to enter to live in it, eat your food and sleep in your beds. You would call the police. If they stayed outside just beyond your gate you would be nervous and afraid and want the police to protect you. That African nations have done such a poor job of creating fruitful economies is terrible, but it is their fault. Collectively, they have received and wasted or stolen billions. Europe can only absorb so many and should take in those who will make a ... More »

A well-written piece, that explores the life of poor Africans who in desperation tries to enter Europe.

Please add this publication to the database. This story is a true narrative with the richness of sources who are exactly what the story is about. It gives voice to the voiceless, which is a key value of journalism. I regret that I am not well enough informed about the situation of sub- Saharan Africans to give a solid recommendation on whether this story is fair. I suspect it is, though it does not remind me of all the political, social and environmental forces at work in the situation.