Rwanda has confirmed the arrival of its first group of migrants deported from the United States under a bilateral migration deal.
Government spokesperson Yolande Makolo said on Thursday that seven individuals arrived in Kigali in mid-August after their cases were vetted and approved by Rwandan authorities. She said the group is being supported by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and Rwanda’s social services.
Makolo did not disclose the deportees’ identities but noted that they have been provided with accommodation, healthcare, and workforce training opportunities. Three have requested to return to their home countries, while four have indicated they wish to remain in Rwanda.
Earlier this month, Kigali announced plans to take in up to 250 people expelled from the US under policies linked to former President Donald Trump’s administration. Rwanda is one of four African countries with such agreements, alongside Uganda, Eswatini, and South Sudan.
Rights groups have raised concerns that the arrangement could violate international law by exposing deportees to potential abuse or persecution in receiving countries.
The deal comes as Rwanda continues to present itself as a partner for Western governments on migration management, despite ongoing criticism from human rights advocates.
