Rwanda is seeking £50 million ($63.62 million) from the United Kingdom after the cancellation of a migration deal. The demand follows Britain’s decision to pause certain aid to Rwanda over concerns about its alleged role in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) conflict.
The agreement, introduced by the previous UK government, planned to send asylum seekers to Rwanda in exchange for financial support. However, after taking office in July, Prime Minister Keir Starmer scrapped the plan, calling it expensive and ineffective. Interior Minister Yvette Cooper later revealed that it had already cost British taxpayers £700 million ($890 million).
Rwanda argues it is entitled to compensation. According to officials, the UK initially asked Kigali to waive the payment as a gesture of goodwill. However, Rwanda now insists on the funds, citing recent tensions and what it calls hostile comments from the UK’s Minister for Africa.
Government spokesperson Yolande Makolo criticized Britain’s actions. “The UK had asked Rwanda to quietly forgo the payment based on trust and good faith,” she wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “However, the UK has breached this trust through unjustified punitive measures aimed at coercing Rwanda into compromising our national security.”
The UK Foreign Office has not responded to the demand.
Relations between the two countries have worsened. Britain recently paused some aid to Rwanda and imposed diplomatic restrictions, accusing it of backing the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo. Since January, the rebels have captured key areas, including Goma and Bukavu, along with resource-rich territories.
Rwanda denies supporting M23, stating its troops are only defending against armed groups threatening its security. Despite this, global pressure on Kigali is increasing.
With tensions rising, the future of UK-Rwanda relations remains uncertain. The dispute could also impact regional stability in East Africa.