Uganda has confirmed receiving eight individuals who have been deported by the US government under the 2025 Safe Third Country deal.
The agreement, signed in July 2025, sees Uganda receive and process protection requests for third-country nationals of African origin who are neither Ugandan nor American, and who may not qualify for asylum in the US or are unwilling to return to their countries of origin.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vincent Bagiire Waiswa, confirmed the development, noting that the arrangement aligns with Uganda’s national laws and international obligations while providing a safe pathway for those in need.
“The agreement conforms to Uganda’s national laws and international obligations. It applies to individuals who may not be granted asylum in the USA and who have concerns about returning to their home countries,” Bagiire said.
He emphasized that the arrangement respects international protection standards, including the principle of non-refoulement, ensuring that no one is returned to a country where they may face torture, cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
“This Safe Third Country Agreement takes into account both Governments’ international obligations, including that no one should be returned to a country where they would face harm,” Bagiire added.
The eight individuals arrived in Uganda on 1 April 2026, and their protection requests are currently being processed. Their identities remain confidential to protect their privacy.
Bagiire reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to providing sanctuary.
“Uganda continues to uphold its longstanding commitment to offering sanctuary to persons in need and ensuring that they are treated with dignity,” he said.
