the west of the continent in particular, young men from nigeria, ivory coast and the gambia. then there's the eastern route which is popular with those fleeing eritrea and somalia. the two routes join in libya for the dangerous voyage across the mediterranean to europe. in 2016, an estimated 5000 people lost their lives while attempting the crossing. and only very few who make it to europe are actually granted asylum. most go under the radar, earning money illegally, mainly in catering, or after being recruited by drug dealers. still, for many in countries like the gambia, europe is a goal worth the risks. >> a new mood of optimism is sweeping gambia. after 22 years of dictatorship, the country now has a democratically-elected government. here in the village of kafuta, it's time to celebrate. all that's marring the occasion is the absence of young men. they've gone taking what's called 'the backway' to europe. one of the few left is amadou. he doesn't want to reveal his full name. he sometimes spends the whole day on the porch with his father. he says he feels useless. >> i h have