Rwanda has received a group of seven deportees from the United States, marking the first batch of individuals to arrive in the country under a bilateral agreement with Washington. According to a government spokesperson, each case was thoroughly vetted prior to arrival, with Kigali reviewing and approving migrants before granting entry.

The identities of the deportees have not been disclosed, but government spokesperson Yolande Makolo confirmed that they are being accommodated by an international organization. The International Organization for Migration, as well as representatives of Rwanda’s social services, are also providing support and visiting the individuals.

Those approved for settlement in Rwanda will receive a range of benefits, including workforce training and healthcare. Makolo noted that three of the deportees have expressed a desire to return to their home countries, while the remaining four wish to stay and build new lives in Rwanda.

The agreement between Rwanda and the United States allows for the deportation of up to 250 individuals, as part of President Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda. Rwanda is one of four African countries to have reached such an agreement with Washington, alongside Uganda, Eswatini, and South Sudan.

Human rights experts have raised concerns that the deportations may contravene international law, citing the risk of torture, abduction, and other abuses in the recipient countries. The development is being closely watched, with many questioning the implications of such agreements on the rights and wellbeing of those affected.

The arrival of the deportees in Rwanda marks a significant step in the implementation of the bilateral agreement. As the situation unfolds, attention will be focused on the treatment and integration of the individuals, as well as the potential for further deportations under the agreement. With the international community monitoring the situation, Rwanda’s handling of the deportees will be subject to scrutiny, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in the implementation of such agreements.