Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo confirmed that the migrants arrived in mid-August after undergoing the necessary screening and approval procedures.

“These seven individuals have been screened and approved. They are currently under the care of an international humanitarian organization, and receive regular visits from UNHCR and government social welfare agencies,” Makolo said.

She added that four of the migrants have expressed interest in settling permanently in Rwanda, while the others do not wish to return to their countries of origin. Their specific nationalities were not disclosed.

“Regardless of their individual circumstances, all will receive appropriate support and protection from the Government of Rwanda,” Makolo emphasized.

Under the agreement, Rwanda is expected to host up to 250 migrants, with the possibility of increasing this number through ongoing consultations between the two governments.

Migrants are not required to stay in Rwanda permanently; those who wish to move elsewhere will be assisted to do so. None of the individuals being transferred are serving criminal sentences, as the two countries do not have prisoner transfer agreements. Eligible migrants include those who have completed their sentences, those not facing criminal charges, and those not convicted of child-related offenses.

Rwanda retains the right to approve each case before admission. Once in the country, approved migrants will be provided with job training, healthcare, housing, and opportunities to participate in Rwanda’s development.

While the United States has pledged financial support for the program, the details of the funding, including its scale, have not been disclosed.