At least 24 people have lost their lives after two boats, mostly carrying Somali nationals, capsized off Madagascar's coast, according to local authorities.

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Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that efforts are ongoing to "ensure the safe return of the survivors." A total of 70 passengers were aboard the two vessels.

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The boats were found adrift off Madagascar's northern coast on Saturday in the Indian Ocean, with engine failure suspected as the cause.

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Local fishermen rescued the survivors, a senior Somalian government official informed the media.

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The survivors revealed they were attempting to reach the French island of Mayotte, a dangerous route often taken by Somali migrants seeking asylum.

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Driven by unemployment and poverty in the Horn of Africa, many young people embark on the perilous journey, hoping to reach Europe for a better future.

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Authorities in Madagascar issued warnings about the "severe risks associated with illegal migration," indicating that the victims were likely migrants.

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