Rwanda to Accept up to 250 Deported Migrants Under US Deal

Rwanda has agreed to accept up to 250 migrants deported from the United States, according to Rwandan government officials, marking a significant step in Washington’s tougher immigration strategy under President Donald Trump.

A Rwandan official confirmed to Reuters that the agreement was signed in Kigali in June, with the US already submitting an initial list of 10 individuals for review.

Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo said the agreement reflects the country’s long-standing values of reintegration and rehabilitation, noting that nearly every Rwandan family has experienced displacement.

Under the deal, Rwanda reserves the right to accept or reject each individual proposed for resettlement.

Those approved will receive workforce training, healthcare, and housing support to begin a new life in one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.

While the US State Department and White House have not issued public comments, the Department of Homeland Security referred inquiries to the State Department.

The Trump administration has intensified efforts to deport undocumented migrants and expand third-country relocation programs. In recent years, Washington has also deported individuals to countries such as South Sudan and Eswatini.

According to Rwandan officials, the US will provide financial support in the form of a grant, though the exact amount has not been disclosed. The agreement also allows for future expansion beyond the initial 250 individuals, pending mutual consent. Those deported to Rwanda will not be required to stay and may leave at any time.

The deal excludes individuals currently serving prison sentences or those facing criminal charges in the United States. Notably, no one convicted of sexual crimes against children will be accepted.

Earlier this year, the US deported over 200 Venezuelans accused of gang involvement to El Salvador, where they were imprisoned and later released in a prisoner exchange.

In June, the US Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to proceed with deportations to third countries without requiring a risk assessment. However, this policy is currently being challenged in a federal lawsuit filed in Boston.