Rwanda Welcomes First US Deportees Under Migration Deal

Kigali, Rwanda— The Government of Rwanda has confirmed the arrival of the first group of migrants deported from the United States under a new bilateral relocation agreement.

Government spokesperson, Ms. Yolande Makolo, told AFP that seven migrants, who had been screened and approved, arrived in Kigali in mid-August. She disclosed that “three of them have requested to return to their home countries, while the remaining four expressed willingness to settle and build new lives in Rwanda.”

The specific nationalities of the deportees were not made public. However, Rwanda had earlier announced its readiness to accept up to 250 individuals under the arrangement, while maintaining the right to evaluate and approve each case individually.

According to Ms. Makolo, the new arrivals are being hosted by an international organisation, with additional support and monitoring provided by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and Rwandan social services.

The agreement forms part of Washington’s broader strategy to transfer deportees to third countries—a controversial approach initially introduced during the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Similar relocation discussions had been held with South Sudan and Eswatini in the past.

Defending Rwanda’s participation in the deal, Ms. Makolo pointed to the country’s own history of displacement. “Nearly every Rwandan family has endured the difficulties of forced migration. That is why we are committed to ensuring these migrants receive accommodation, healthcare, and vocational training to help them rebuild their lives.”

This is not the first time Kigali has entered into a relocation agreement. A highly debated deal with the United Kingdom, aimed at resettling asylum seekers in Rwanda, collapsed last year following a political transition in London.

While Rwandan authorities continue to project the country as one of Africa’s most stable states, rights advocates have expressed strong concerns. Human rights organisations warn that such relocation schemes may contravene international law if deportees are transferred to environments where they risk abuse, abduction, or torture.

President Paul Kagame’s government has also faced criticism over restrictions on political freedoms and media space, raising questions about the long-term protection and integration of migrants who may remain in Rwanda.

Despite the concerns, Rwandan officials insist the program is guided by humanitarian considerations and designed to offer deportees a second chance at stability and livelihood.

By Makinde oyinkansola| August 28, 2025