In East Africa, Rwanda could soon be hosting more than 250 migrants deported from the United States under a newly confirmed bilateral arrangement.

Speaking on Tuesday, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo revealed that Kigali has agreed with Washington to accept up to 250 individuals as part of a resettlement program. The deal gives the Rwandan government the authority to review and approve each person proposed for relocation before they are admitted into the country.

Makolo emphasized that the agreement is guided by humanitarian considerations, while also ensuring that the selection process meets Rwanda’s security and immigration requirements.

“We are committed to playing our role in offering safe haven, but every case will be considered individually and approved accordingly,” she said.

If fully implemented, Rwanda would become the third African nation in 2025 to receive foreign nationals deported from the United States—joining South Sudan and Eswatini, which have already taken in deportees earlier this year.

The identities and national origins of the migrants have not been disclosed, but officials have indicated they are not Rwandan citizens. Many are believed to be people whose asylum applications or legal status in the United States were rejected.

This agreement aligns with Rwanda’s growing role as a host nation for migrants and refugees under international partnerships. Kigali has previously drawn global attention for similar arrangements, including deals with the United Kingdom and Israel to resettle asylum seekers.

While the move has been praised by some as a demonstration of Rwanda’s commitment to global humanitarian efforts, critics have urged transparency in the selection process and the need to ensure that resettled migrants receive adequate protection, integration support, and respect for their rights.

With the agreement now in place, the first group of migrants could arrive in Kigali in the coming weeks, pending final approvals and logistical preparations.