President Bio Cautions Citizens Against Perilous ‘Temple Run’ Migration

President Bio Cautions Citizens Against Perilous ‘Temple Run’ Migration

President Julius Maada Bio has issued a stark warning to the public regarding the escalating phenomenon of “Temple Run,” an increasingly dangerous practice in which young individuals attempt to seek improved opportunities abroad via irregular, illegal, and often life-threatening routes away from Sierra Leone.

The President voiced profound concern over the rising number of youth undertaking hazardous journeys across deserts and seas. These journeys frequently expose migrants to severe, life-threatening conditions. Many who attempt these perilous migrations experience extreme hardships and are ultimately repatriated to Sierra Leone after failing to reach their intended destinations.

“Lives are being lost in the desert and at sea. We must remain and focus on national development in Sierra Leone,” President Bio stated, imploring citizens to contribute to local growth rather than risking their lives abroad.

The term “Temple Run” refers to the illicit migration of Sierra Leoneans and other West Africans attempting to reach Europe via the Sahara Desert. The name is derived from the popular mobile game “Temple Run,” symbolizing the immense challenges and dangers inherent in the migrants' journey. This route is notoriously dangerous, characterized by unforgiving desert conditions, unpredictable weather, and the constant threat posed by human traffickers, making it one of the riskiest paths for young people pursuing better lives overseas.

A recent Al Jazeera documentary brought to light the harsh realities and suffering endured by migrants, including instances of mistreatment and racism from authorities in countries like Tunisia. Many migrants suffer prolonged periods without essential provisions such as food, water, or medical care, while others are abandoned in the desert with uncertain prospects of ever reaching Europe.

The United Nations International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has also cautioned regional populations against attempting this journey. The organization provides assistance to migrants stranded in the desert and continues to collaborate with local authorities to ensure potential migrants are fully aware of the associated risks and have access to viable, safer alternatives.

President Bio urged all Sierra Leoneans to channel their skills and energy toward the nation's reconstruction efforts. He emphasized that strengthening local opportunities is key to preventing more young people from embarking on unsafe paths abroad. He called for patience and collective action to forge a stronger, more secure future within Sierra Leone, where opportunities can be cultivated domestically rather than sought through life-threatening migration.