In a significant move, Grammy-winning artist Ciara has been granted citizenship in Benin, making her one of the first prominent figures to benefit from a recent law designed to offer nationality to descendants of enslaved individuals. The announcement was celebrated by the Benin government, which emphasized the importance of this initiative in fostering connections with the African diaspora and enhancing cultural tourism.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Ciara expressed her gratitude, saying she felt "honoured" by the warm welcome she received. The citizenship ceremony took place in Cotonou, with the government describing the act as historical and symbolic—a meaningful return to one’s roots and an enduring connection with those who were historically disconnected from their homeland.
Last year, Benin enacted the My Afro Origins Law, allowing descendants of those taken during the transatlantic slave trade to claim citizenship. This initiative aligns Benin with other West African nations, such as Ghana and Guinea-Bissau, promoting a sense of belonging among African descendants worldwide. Interested applicants can now access the application process through a dedicated website.
This citizenship granting comes on the heels of Benin’s appointment of acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee and his wife, Tonya Lewis Lee, as ambassadors for African-Americans, further underlining the nation’s commitment to re-engaging with its diaspora. The historic coastal region of Benin, formerly part of the notorious Slave Coast, serves as a poignant reminder of the millions torn from their homeland and shipped across the Atlantic to the Americas.
As nations like Benin strive to heal historical wounds, the reception of public figures like Ciara serves to inspire deeper connections and recognition of shared heritage among the African diaspora.
