Deportation policies by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) impact many individuals globally, with a particular focus on African countries. From 2021 to 2024, several African nations reported significantly fewer deportations compared to other regions.
While Latin America often dominates discussions on U.S. immigration, African countries also have substantial diaspora communities. The number of African migrants in the U.S. has increased sixteenfold since 1980. In 2019, approximately 2.1 million Sub-Saharan Africans resided in the U.S., accounting for 5% of the foreign-born population.
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The 2024 ICE report reveals 271,484 removals in 2019, with 32.7% involving individuals with criminal histories. Despite strict enforcement, some African nations have maintained low deportation rates. These countries typically have smaller diaspora populations and adhere to migration protocols, reducing the likelihood of deportation.
According to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, here are 10 African countries with the lowest deportation rates from the U.S. under Biden
1. Comoros
Comoros has had no recorded deportations from the U.S. between 2021 and 2024. The country, located in the Indian Ocean, has a small population and relatively low migration to the U.S.
2. Djibouti
Djibouti has also recorded zero deportations. The country maintains diplomatic and military ties with the U.S., and its migration numbers remain low.
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3. Lesotho
Lesotho, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, has no recorded removals during this period. Many Basotho migrants prefer moving to neighbouring South Africa for economic opportunities.
4. Madagascar
Madagascar has seen no removals from the U.S. since 2021. Its citizens rarely migrate to the U.S. in large numbers, contributing to the absence of deportations.
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5. Mauritius
Mauritius recorded no deportations under the Biden administration. The country has strong international ties and a stable economic environment, reducing irregular migration.
6. São Tomé and Príncipe
The small island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe has had no deportations from the U.S. between 2021 and 2024. Migration from the country is minimal.
7. Seychelles
Seychelles, another island nation, recorded zero deportations. Its strong tourism industry provides economic stability, reducing the need for migration.
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8. Eswatini
Eswatini recorded two deportations during this period. The country’s limited migration to the U.S. likely contributed to the low number.
9. Botswana
Botswana has had only three deportations. The country has one of Africa’s most stable economies, with fewer citizens seeking irregular migration to the U.S.
10. Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia
Malawi, Mozambique, and Namibia each recorded five deportations. While migration to the U.S. from these countries exists, the numbers remain low.
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