Sierra Leone Considers Accepting West African Nationals for U.S. Visa Deal

Sierra Leone Considers Accepting West African Nationals for U.S. Visa Deal

The Government of Sierra Leone has confirmed that the United States has formally requested the country to accept third-party nationals. This request is part of ongoing bilateral negotiations aimed at the full removal of U.S. visa restrictions on Sierra Leone.

In a statement to Truth Media, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Musa Timothy Kabba, acknowledged the request is currently under review. However, he clarified that Sierra Leone's acceptance would be strictly limited to nationals from West African countries and would operate solely within the established framework of international refugee law.

"A request has been made to us to consider accepting third-party nationals. Should we agree to accept them based on refugee status, this acceptance will exclusively cover West African nationals," Minister Kabba stated. "Our role would be to facilitate their eventual return to their respective countries. We will not be accepting individuals from outside the West African region."

The Minister also disclosed that approximately 52 Sierra Leonean nationals are currently in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), awaiting deportation. He noted that discussions concerning these individuals are ongoing as part of the broader diplomatic engagement with U.S. authorities.

Minister Kabba underscored that Sierra Leone would not consider accepting non-West African nationals under any circumstances, emphasizing that the government's decision-making process is guided by national legislation and regional considerations.

This development occurs amidst continued diplomatic talks between Freetown and Washington focused on resolving outstanding immigration and cooperation issues to address the existing visa restrictions.