A third group of third-country nationals, transferred from the United States under the Third Country National Agreement, arrived at Freetown International Airport on Friday, 31 July 2026. The latest contingent comprised 10 nationals from countries within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Sierra Leone has now received a total of 32 people under this arrangement, marking a significant step in the ongoing implementation of the Third Country National Agreement. The arrival shows Sierra Leone's role as a temporary transit country for these individuals, facilitated by a structured international arrangement.
Arrival and Processing Procedures
The latest group of arrivals consisted of six Ghanaians, one Liberian, one Beninese, one Nigerian, and one Togolese national. Nine of the individuals were male, and one was female. Upon their arrival, the individuals underwent mandatory immigration, health, and security procedures, which were coordinated by several Sierra Leonean institutions. This full processing ensures that all necessary protocols are observed for the safety and security of both the arrivals and the host nation. The agencies involved in this rigorous process included the Sierra Leone Police, the Office of National Security, the Sierra Leone Immigration Department, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. These government bodies work collaboratively to manage the intake and initial assessment of the arriving nationals. Following the completion of these essential formalities, the group was officially handed over to Kenvah Solutions (SL) Limited, the designated entity responsible for their welfare. The company stated, "The company said it remained committed to ensuring that all individuals received under the programme are treated with dignity and provided with appropriate humanitarian assistance throughout their temporary stay in Sierra Leone." This commitment is central to the humane treatment of the individuals during their transit period.
Repatriation Agreement Details
The Third Country National Agreement, which governs these transfers, was signed in early 2026, establishing the framework for this unique international cooperation. Under the terms of the agreement, Sierra Leone is authorized to temporarily receive up to 300 Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) nationals annually who are transferred from the United States. The arrangement also reportedly establishes a monthly limit of 25 arrivals, providing a controlled and manageable flow of individuals. Sierra Leone functions as a temporary transit country for these individuals under the framework of the agreement, offering a safe and secure environment before their onward repatriation. The programme receives substantial financial backing through a US$1.5 million grant provided by the United States Government. This grant is specifically designated to cover humanitarian aid, accommodation, transportation, and other operational costs associated with the programme, ensuring its sustainable implementation without placing a financial burden on Sierra Leone. Kenvah Solutions (SL) Limited is responsible for providing temporary accommodation, welfare assistance, and case-management services to these individuals during their stay.
Support and Future Outlook
Twenty-two individuals from the first and second contingents have already been successfully repatriated to their countries of origin, demonstrating the effectiveness of the programme's ultimate goal. The latest group of 10 arrivals is expected to remain temporarily under the care of Kenvah Solutions (SL) Limited, where they will receive full support. The company reiterated its commitment, stating, "The company said it remained committed to ensuring that all individuals received under the programme are treated with dignity and provided with appropriate humanitarian assistance throughout their temporary stay in Sierra Leone." This arrangement is designed as a structured and time-bound intervention, emphasizing its temporary nature and the clear objectives for each individual's journey. Kenvah Solutions (SL) Limited holds responsibility for providing temporary accommodation, welfare assistance, and case-management services to the individuals, ensuring their well-being and facilitating their eventual return home. Government institutions are expected to continue monitoring the programme to ensure its adherence to the established framework and the highest standards of care and compliance.