A new wave of deportations from the United States is set to reach the Democratic Republic of Congo this week.
At least 30 deportees, and possibly up to 45, are expected to arrive in Kinshasa, according to multiple sources.
The individuals are not Congolese nationals and originate from countries across Central and South America.
Their transfer forms part of a recent agreement between Washington and Kinshasa, announced earlier this month.
The arrangement reflects broader U.S. efforts to accelerate migrant removals through deals with African governments.
The timing coincides with Washington’s diplomatic push in eastern Congo and a mineral partnership with Kinshasa.
The deportees are expected to land by Friday and will be housed near Kinshasa’s main airport.
A hotel facility will host them temporarily, offering single rooms and basic meals under police security.
Sources say they may remain there for only 10 to 15 days, with their longer-term fate still unclear.
The International Organization for Migration is expected to provide humanitarian support after arrival.
Officials have stressed the U.N.-related agency plays no role in carrying out the deportations themselves.
Legal experts and rights groups have previously questioned the practice of sending migrants to third countries.
Similar transfers have already been carried out to several African states in recent years.
Some deportees reportedly had legal protections in the United States against return to their home countries.
U.S. and Congolese authorities have not disclosed how many individuals will ultimately be transferred under the deal.