First deportees arrive in Rwanda from the US

August 28, 2025

Rwanda has received seven vetted migrants deported from the United States as part of a deal with the Trump administration that will eventually involve 250 people. Four of these migrants will remain in Rwanda while three have chosen to return to their home countries. The Rwandan government has committed to providing appropriate support and protection to all deportees, citing Rwanda's own historical experience with displacement as motivation for the agreement.

Who is affected

Seven migrants deported from the US to Rwanda (with 250 total expected)
Undocumented migrants in the US targeted by Trump's deportation program
The Rwandan government providing accommodation and services
International organizations including the International Organization on Migration (IOM)
Potential future deportees under similar arrangements

What action is being taken

Rwanda is receiving and accommodating deported migrants from the US
An international organization is currently housing the seven arrivals
The International Organization on Migration and Rwandan social services are visiting the migrants to assess their needs
The Trump administration is implementing a broader mass deportation initiative for undocumented migrants
Rights groups are raising concerns about potential breaches of international law

Why it matters

This represents the implementation of Trump's promised mass deportation program
The arrangement could establish a precedent for third-country deportation agreements
Human rights concerns exist about sending migrants to countries where they may face risks
Rwanda is positioning itself as a humanitarian partner despite criticism of its human rights record
The deportation agreement follows Rwanda's involvement in a US-brokered peace deal with DR Congo, suggesting potential diplomatic connections

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC