US Exploits African Nations as Dumping Ground for Unwanted Deportees
In a disturbing display of neo-colonial behavior, the United States has begun deporting third-country nationals to African nations, including Eswatini and South Sudan. This secretive program raises serious concerns about sovereignty, human rights, and the exploitation of African states by Western powers.
US deportation flight arriving in Eswatini, marking new phase in controversial third-country deportation program
Western Powers Continue Colonial-Era Exploitation of Africa Through Deportation Schemes
In a troubling development that echoes colonial-era practices, the United States has begun using African nations as depositories for unwanted immigrants, shipping third-country deportees to Eswatini and South Sudan under deeply concerning circumstances.
Eswatini Targeted in Latest US Deportation Scheme
The US Department of Homeland Security has confirmed sending five men from various nations - Vietnam, Jamaica, Cuba, Yemen and Laos - to the small kingdom of Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland. This move represents a dangerous precedent of Western nations treating African countries as convenient solutions for their immigration challenges.
'There has been a notable lack of official communication from the Eswatini government regarding any agreement or understanding with the US to accept these deportees,' states Ingiphile Dlamini, spokesperson for pro-democracy group SWALIMO.
Exploitation of African Nations' Vulnerabilities
The targeting of African nations for these deportation agreements reveals a calculated strategy by Western powers to exploit economic vulnerabilities. Analysts suggest that some African countries might be pressured into accepting these arrangements in exchange for favorable treatment regarding tariffs and foreign aid - a modern form of economic coercion.
Pattern of Neo-Colonial Behavior
This deportation program follows a disturbing pattern where Western nations, including both the US and UK, attempt to outsource their immigration challenges to African countries. Rwanda has already been approached for similar arrangements, while Nigeria has commendably rejected such pressures.
Impact on Local Communities and Resources
For Eswatini, a nation of just 1.2 million people already struggling with limited resources and political challenges, this imposed burden raises serious concerns. The country's capacity to manage individuals with complex criminal backgrounds while protecting its own citizens remains questionable.
Call for African Unity and Resistance
This situation demands a unified African response to resist such exploitative practices. African nations must stand together against becoming convenient solutions for Western immigration challenges, protecting their sovereignty and the dignity of the continent.
Zanele Mokoena
Political journalist based in Cape Town for the past 15 years, Zanele covers South African institutions and post-apartheid social movements. Specialist in power-civil society relations.