Uganda AgreesUganda has reached an agreement with the United States to accept deported migrants under certain conditions, according to the foreign ministry.
The deal stipulates that only deportees without criminal records and not classified as unaccompanied minors will be received.
Officials in Kampala indicated that Uganda prefers the migrants to be of African origin but did not disclose what concessions might come in return.
The US embassy in Uganda declined to comment, calling the matter “diplomatic negotiations.” However, Washington later confirmed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with President Yoweri Museveni about migration, trade, and regional stability.
The arrangement is part of broader US efforts to expand deportation options for migrants who cannot easily be sent to their countries of origin.
Human rights groups in both Uganda and abroad have warned that the agreement could put vulnerable individuals at risk and may conflict with international law.
Ugandan opposition figures argue the deal could help the government bolster its image ahead of the 2026 elections.
They have urged Washington not to ignore ongoing governance and rights concerns in Uganda. Critics also point to Uganda’s recent history of strained relations with the US, including sanctions over corruption and its controversial anti-homosexuality law passed in 2023.
Despite denials from some Ugandan officials that a final deal has been reached, the foreign ministry insists terms are being finalized.
The development comes after recent US deportations to Eswatini and South Sudan, which have already raised questions about the rights and safety of migrants sent to third countries.