Story perspectives

Eswatini Takes 160 Trump Migrants, Faces Overcrowded Prison

5/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Eswatini volunteered as the first African nation for President Donald Trump’s deportation program, agreeing to host 160 migrants for $5.1 million.
The program placed 19 migrants in a prison near Mbabane after a court on April 10 ordered them legal counsel, which officials have not provided.
Detainees say cells are crowded, they fear illness and have medical care, while Eswatini receives $205 million health aid and 10 % tariff cuts unrelated to the deal.

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Story summary

Eswatini volunteered as the first African nation for President Donald Trump’s deportation program, agreeing to host 160 migrants for $5.1 million.
The program placed 19 migrants in a prison near Mbabane after a court on April 10 ordered them legal counsel, which officials have not provided.
Detainees say cells are crowded, they fear illness and have medical care, while Eswatini receives $205 million health aid and 10 % tariff cuts unrelated to the deal.