What stories are hidden in Lampedusa’s migrant museum?

“Some bring soil with them. They bring it from their country. We’ve found a number of these little packets that show the bond with one’s country, with Africa.”

Imagine packing your bag and leaving your home for a new life. What would you take with you? Photos? Letters? A lucky charm?

A group of volunteers on the Italian Island of Lampedusa have put together a collection of items lost by migrants who’ve struggled to get there, often in tiny boats. The island is the closest part of Europe to Africa, but it’s still a risky journey which thousands have died attempting.

Just last weekend at least 29 more migrants died after their boats capsized.

Now the BBC’s Thomas Naadi has made a documentary – a labour of love which has taken more than a year – based on his attempt to find some of the owners of the possessions.

He spoke to Alan Kasujja for Africa Daily.

@kasujja

@Thomas_Naadi