US Lawmaker Proposes Ban on Immigration from 3 African Nations

Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace has proposed legislation that would ban immigration from Somalia, Sudan and South Sudan, saying the United States must tighten its borders and prevent what she described as an “invasion” of migrants.

Mace announced the proposal in a statement on social media, arguing that the United States should not follow what she called Europe’s approach to immigration.

“America is being invaded. We are filing legislation to ban immigration from Somalia, Sudan, and South Sudan. America will not become the next Europe. We must stop the invasion now,” she said.

The proposed legislation comes as immigration remains one of the most divisive issues in US politics, with Republicans pushing for stricter border controls and Democrats generally advocating for broader pathways for migrants while maintaining border security.

Mace said the bill is intended to strengthen national security by preventing entry from countries she believes pose elevated security risks.

Somalia, Sudan and South Sudan have experienced years of armed conflict, political instability and humanitarian crises, prompting large numbers of people to flee in search of safety.

The United States has admitted refugees and other immigrants from the three countries under existing immigration and humanitarian programmes, subject to extensive security screening. It was not immediately clear whether Mace’s proposed legislation would exempt refugees, asylum seekers or individuals already holding valid US visas.

The measure faces an uncertain future in Congress, where it would require approval by both the House of Representatives and the Senate before it could be signed into law by the president.

The proposal is expected to draw sharp criticism from immigrant rights groups and Democratic lawmakers, who have opposed nationality-based immigration restrictions, while supporters are likely to argue that tougher measures are necessary to safeguard national security and strengthen border enforcement.

ligadwah@businessdayafrica.org