Eswatini receives four more third-country nationals from the United States

MBABANE -The Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini has confirmed that four additional third-country nationals have been transferred to the country from the United States as part of an ongoing migration arrangement between the two governments.

In a statement issued on 12 March, acting government spokesperson Thabile Mdluli said the individuals were received under an agreement signed in 2025 that allows the United States to transfer certain migrants to Eswatini while arrangements are made for their return to their countries of origin.

According to the government, the latest group consists of four people from different countries: one from Tanzania, one from Sudan, and two from Somalia.

The transfers form part of a programme in which Eswatini temporarily hosts third-country nationals while diplomatic and administrative processes are carried out to facilitate their repatriation.

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“The nation will recall that in 2025 the Kingdom of Eswatini entered into an agreement with the United States of America under which the United States would transfer third-country nationals to Eswatini for the purpose of facilitating their eventual repatriation to their respective countries of origin,” the government said.

Repatriation progress

Authorities say progress has been made in returning some of the migrants to their home countries.

The government confirmed that a Jamaican national who had previously been transferred to Eswatini under the programme was successfully repatriated in September last year.

Another migrant has since received the necessary travel documentation and is expected to leave the country soon, officials said.

The government added that discussions with other countries of origin are continuing as authorities work to complete the repatriation process for the remaining individuals.

Officials also acknowledged the support of the International Organisation for Migration in managing the programme.

The agency has been providing migration expertise and logistical support to facilitate the transfer and return processes, the government stated.

“Government once again extends its deepest appreciation to its strategic partner, the International Organisation for Migration, experts in the migration field, for their continued support and assistance in the implementation of this programme,” the statement said.

Commitment to human rights

Authorities emphasised that the migrants currently staying in Eswatini will continue to be treated in accordance with international standards.

The government stated that it remains committed to ensuring the rights and dignity of third-country nationals are respected while they are in the country.

Migration management has become an increasingly complex issue globally, particularly as countries grapple with irregular migration and the movement of displaced people across borders.

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Arrangements involving temporary relocation or hosting of migrants have been used in several regions as governments attempt to manage deportations and repatriation processes that can be delayed by diplomatic, legal or logistical challenges.

Eswatini authorities say they will continue engaging with relevant countries and international partners to ensure the process is completed.

While the latest arrivals increase the number of migrants temporarily hosted in the country under the agreement, the government maintains that the programme remains focused on facilitating their safe return home once travel documentation and diplomatic clearances are secured.

Officials did not provide details about where the individuals are being accommodated or how long the repatriation process may take.