Sfax, a city in Tunisia, has recently made headlines due to a tragic incident involving a migrant boat sinking off the Tunisian coast near Sfax. This event resulted in casualties and missing persons, highlighting the increasing number of individuals attempting to reach Europe from Tunisia. Asylum seekers from across Africa have found themselves stranded in Tunisia, unable to return home and facing persecution in their host country.
Sfax, located 270 km southeast of Tunis, was founded in AD 849 on the ruins of Roman Taparura. It serves as the capital of the Sfax Governorate, with a population of approximately 955,421 inhabitants as of 2014. The city is an important Mediterranean port and plays a significant role in Tunisia's economy, particularly in industries such as fishing, olive oil production, and textiles. Sfax is known for its rich history, blending ancient ruins with modern developments, making it a cultural and economic hub in the region.