Magan

I left Somalia after my father was killed. He was shot in front of our house. When Al-Shabab came to look for him, they told him: join us or you die. He refused, and they shot him. My uncle was also killed.

Magan* is just 16 years old, he left Somalia alone when he was even younger. He didn’t say anything to anyone. Only when he arrived on board the Ocean Viking did he send a message to his brother.
The journey was a long and difficult one, from Somalia through Ethiopia, Sudan, and Libya. Eight months in total travelling alone through desert, cities and sea. 

The most difficult part was the Mediterranean because we were days without food and without water. My hands hurt, they are swollen because I held so tight the ropes on our rubber boat for days not to fall into the sea

He is clear about the dangers he fled:
Taking the sea is dangerous of Course, but Libya is worse. And Libya is dangerous but for me Somalia is even worse, more dangerous.

 The border between Sudan and Libya was terrifying: I was afraid they would shoot me. 

 Magan wants to go to Italy because at least there is peace there. But he still loves his country. 

I am 16 and when I grow up, I want peace. You are European, you have peace? I don’t know what peace is.

His family helped him financially to make the journey. He explains simply: This is how it is done. It is a matter of tradition and cultural habit.  Also you, if you had to leave your country because of war, your family would help you, no?
My mom was very sick. I miss her. I miss my mom.