Rwanda reaches deal to take up to 250 illegal immigrants from US

Rwanda has reportedly reached a deal to take up to 250 illegal immigrants from the U.S., according to the African country's government.

"Rwanda has agreed with the United States to accept up to 250 migrants, in part because nearly every Rwandan family has experienced the hardships of displacement, and our societal values are founded on reintegration and rehabilitation," Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo said, Reuters reported Tuesday.

"Under the agreement, Rwanda has the ability to approve each individual proposed for resettlement. Those approved will be provided with workforce training, healthcare, and accommodation support to jumpstart their lives in Rwanda, giving them the opportunity to contribute to one of the fastest-growing economies in the world over the last decade."

The agreement was signed by U.S. and Rwandan officials in the country's capital of Kigali in June, and an initial list of 10 people has already been sent to be vetted, according to a Rwandan official, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity.

The official also said that the U.S. will pay Rwanda in the form of a grant, but declined to say how much it was for.

The two countries could adjust the agreement to include more than 250 illegal immigrants by mutual consent, and they do not have to stay in Rwanda, as they are allowed to leave anytime, according to the official.

Rwanda will not accept child sex offenders, and will only take in illegal immigrants whose prison terms are complete or who have no criminal case against them, the official said, as there is no agreement with the U.S. that would allow people to serve out their sentence in Rwanda.