Money Gambians send home from Europe is a lifeline for their families but the sacrifices take a toll

Every month, many young Gambian men living abroad in Europe send money back home to their families, serving as a crucial financial lifeline. These remittances are essential for their loved ones in Gambia but also come at a cost, reflecting the sacrifices and challenges faced by migrants. One such story is that of Binta Bah, who met her husband through a dating app, married him via a video call, but has only seen him once in person since he started working in a German factory. Despite the distance, the money he sends home is a vital support for Bah and her family.

Gambia heavily relies on these remittances, with Gambians abroad sending hundreds of millions of dollars annually, comprising a significant portion of the country’s economy. The situation highlights the impact of migration on individuals and communities, as many Gambians undertake risky journeys to Europe in search of better opportunities. The backway, a dangerous route across the Sahara Desert and Mediterranean Sea, is often taken by migrants, leading to a significant portion of the population leaving Gambia, mainly young men from rural areas.

The absence of these individuals poses challenges for communities like Kwinella, where traditional farming practices are no longer sustainable due to climate change and lack of manpower. With most young men leaving for urban areas or Europe, women and older residents are left to manage the difficult agricultural work. The community heavily relies on remittances sent by migrants to sustain their livelihoods. Without this financial support, life in these villages would be significantly harder.

Despite the economic benefits, the personal toll of migration is evident in stories like that of Musukebbe Manjang, whose husband left for Italy a decade ago and rarely returns. While the money he sends home supports their children, Manjang expresses the emotional and personal challenges of being separated from her husband. Furthermore, the rising costs of living in European countries mean that migrants may not be able to send as much money back home as before, prompting concerns about the sustainability of this financial support system.

The aspirations and struggles of Gambian migrants are exemplified in the story of Ansumana Sanneh’s son, who, despite facing hardships on his journey to Europe, dreams of trying again. The allure of Europe as a promised land and the tangible benefits of remittances create a complex narrative around migration and its impact on individuals and families. The societal effects are also visible, as seen in the changing dynamics of villages, where migration can lead to economic improvements like the construction of grand homes with remittance money.

In conclusion, the article sheds light on the intricate relationship between Gambian migrants in Europe and their families back home, illustrating the dual nature of the financial support they provide and the challenges and sacrifices involved. The stories shared demonstrate the human aspect of migration and the profound effects it has on individuals, families, and communities in Gambia.