THE International Maritime Organization has given special recognition to seafarers for saving lives at sea.

In the year to date, 6,000 people were reported dead or missing following perilous sea journeys in the Mediterranean, Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas, according to the International Organization for Migration.

On Monday, IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez decried the humanitarian tragedy.

“Sadly, many individuals have put their lives in the hands of unscrupulous smugglers and other predators,” he said.

“However we must recognise the tireless efforts of coast guard, navies, search and rescue agencies, and merchant vessels in rescuing individuals in distress at sea, preventing an even higher death toll.”

The IMO presented 15 letters of commendation to seafarers around the world.

Two special certificates of commendation were handed to those involved in the rescue of 150 passengers and crew of the sunken passenger ferry Esther Miracle, which capsized off Gabon on March 9, 2023.

Captain Jerôme Noël Mougoula Saguiliba, master of LCT Celeste, for his “exceptional ship-handling expertise and determination displayed in the search and rescue operation” by protecting survivors from seven life rafts from hazardous debris using expert manoeuvring.

Gabonese Navy Lieutenant Crépin Manfoumbi Mengara was also awarded for his “exemplary leadership and persistence” during the operation.

Lt. Mengara saved 16 people and recovered the bodies of 18 others, the IMO said.

Download the Lloyd’s List App — the essential tool for staying ahead in the maritime industry, anytime, anywhere! Available now on the App Store and Google Play. More information here