Spain has become a significant entry point for African migrants, with many opting for the perilous maritime route to the Canary Islands.

The Canary Islands have emerged as the primary gateway for migrants entering Spain.

In response to the surge in migrant arrivals, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is set to visit Mauritania, Gambia, and Senegal next week to address illegal immigration.

Sánchez's upcoming trip follows a previous visit to Mauritania in February, where he met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who announced a €210 million aid package to bolster cooperation.

During his second visit to Mauritania in six months, Sánchez aims to discuss strategies to reduce clandestine immigration and enhance cooperation.

From January 1 to August 15, 2023, Spain experienced a 66.2% increase in the total number of migrants arriving by sea or land, rising from 18,745 to 31,155.

The Canary Islands alone welcomed 22,304 undocumented migrants during the first eight months of the year, marking a dramatic 126% increase from the previous year.

The number of clandestine migrants arriving in the Canary Islands has more than doubled this year, increasing from nearly 10,000 to over 22,000.

Tragically, an estimated 5,000 migrants have died at sea in the first five months of 2023, averaging 33 deaths per day due to treacherous conditions.

Additionally, the number of migrants arriving in Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in Africa, has nearly tripled this year, highlighting a shift in migration patterns.

Mauritania has recently become the main departure point for migrants heading to the Canary Islands, contributing to the increased migration pressure.

The dangerous maritime journey to the Canary Islands is fraught with challenges, including strong currents and the use of overcrowded, makeshift boats.