Rwanda Receives First Migrants Under US Deportation Agreement

• Aug 28, 2025

Rwanda has confirmed the arrival of seven migrants sent from the United States, the first group to be relocated under a new deportation deal signed between the two governments. The arrangement, announced earlier this month, allows Rwanda to accept up to 250 deportees from the U.S., with Kigali retaining the right to review and approve each individual case.

According to government spokesperson Yolande Makolo, the seven migrants arrived in Rwanda in mid-August. Of the group, three have already expressed interest in returning to their countries of origin, while four have chosen to remain in Rwanda and attempt to build new lives. Authorities did not disclose the migrants’ nationalities.

The new arrivals are being housed by an international organization, with oversight provided by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Rwandan social services. An IOM spokesperson confirmed to AFP that their teams had conducted visits to assess the basic needs of the migrants, though no further details were shared.

This development comes as Washington steps up efforts to expand third-country deportations, with the Trump administration pursuing similar arrangements with South Sudan and Eswatini. U.S. officials argue that such deals are necessary when deportees’ home countries refuse to accept them.

For Rwanda, the agreement is the second such deal in recent years. In 2022, Kigali signed a high-profile arrangement with Britain to take in migrants rejected by the UK, though that plan collapsed after a change in government in London. Despite criticism, Rwanda has defended its willingness to participate in these resettlement schemes. Makolo explained that “nearly every Rwandan family has experienced the hardships of displacement,” adding that arrivals would be offered healthcare, training, and accommodation.

However, rights groups and activists have raised concerns. One Rwandan activist, speaking anonymously, suggested the deal was driven more by money and political influence than humanitarian concerns. They also argued that cooperating with Washington could help Rwanda gain leverage in peace negotiations over the Democratic Republic of Congo, where Kigali has been accused of backing the M23 militia.

Rights experts warn that third-country deportations risk breaching international law, particularly if people are sent to states where they could face persecution or abuse. While Rwanda is often praised for its stability and modern infrastructure, President Paul Kagame’s government faces ongoing criticism for human rights violations, suppression of dissent, and restrictions on press freedom.