U.S. Shifts South African Refugee Processing to Nairobi-Based RSC Africa

Church World Service Takes Over Key Support Functions for Afrikaner, Minority Resettlement

The U.S. has outsourced critical support functions for its South African refugee resettlement program to Resettlement Support Center Africa (RSC Africa), a Nairobi-based operation run by Church World Service, as announced by the U.S. Mission South Africa in an update on July 24, 2025.

Effective July 2025, RSC Africa manages intake, data collection, background checks, medical exams, and travel arrangements for Afrikaners and racial minorities fleeing persecution, replacing Embassy Pretoria’s role.

RSC Africa, a trusted U.S. Refugee Admissions Program partner with over 20 years of experience, will contact applicants but lacks authority to adjudicate cases, which remains with USCIS

READ: U.S. State Department Layoffs & Budget Woes Strain South African Refugee Program.

The transition retires Embassy Pretoria’s inquiry emails, streamlining communication through RSC Africa.

This shift aims to enhance efficiency amid high application volumes, ensuring rigorous vetting for U.S. resettlement.

The move underscores America’s commitment to addressing alleged racial discrimination in South Africa.

U.S. State Department Layoffs & Budget Woes Strain South African Refugee Program

U.S. Embassy South Africa: Refugee Admissions Program for South Africans