Rwanda has formally agreed to receive up to 250 migrants deported from the United States, following the signing of a new bilateral initiative in June 2025, government officials in Kigali have confirmed.
The agreement, announced by Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo, marks a significant development in international migration policy and reflects Rwanda’s ongoing role in hosting displaced persons. Makolo said the initiative aligns with Rwanda’s national values, which emphasize “reintegration and rehabilitation”, rooted in the country’s own post-genocide experience with displacement.
U.S. List Under Review
According to U.S. officials, Washington has already submitted an initial list of 10 individuals for vetting by Rwandan authorities. All deportees must have no pending criminal cases and must have completed any prison sentences before being considered for resettlement. Convicted child sex offenders are categorically excluded from the arrangement.
While deportees will be encouraged to integrate into Rwandan society, they will not be required to remain in the country permanently. Kigali will provide them with accommodation support, healthcare, and workforce training, aimed at facilitating integration into what is currently one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.
The United States is reportedly providing undisclosed financial assistance through a grant system based on integration needs.
A Controversial Migration Strategy
The deal forms part of the Trump administration’s broader migration policy shift, which seeks to relocate some migrants to third-party nations as an alternative to deportation back to their country of origin or prolonged detention in the U.S.
Critics, including several human rights organizations, have voiced concern that such policies risk sending vulnerable individuals to foreign countries where they lack familial ties, legal protection, or community networks.
Nonetheless, Rwandan officials maintain that the country is well-equipped to handle the resettlement responsibly. Kigali has previously negotiated, but not implemented, similar migrant resettlement deals — including high-profile arrangements with the United Kingdom in 2022 and the United Nations regarding migrants stranded in Libya in 2019.
Makolo emphasized that Rwanda’s focus remains on dignified treatment, sustainable support, and opportunity-building for those being relocated.
“Our history has taught us the value of reintegration and resilience,” she said. “We welcome this opportunity to give people a chance to rebuild their lives.”
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