American singer Ciara has officially become a Beninese citizen under a new initiative launched by the government of Benin to reconnect with the African diaspora.
She received her naturalization certificate on July 26—coinciding with the United Nations International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent—at a ceremony led by President Patrice Talon.
Two other individuals of African descent were also granted citizenship at the event, marking a historic first under the program aimed at deepening cultural and ancestral ties.
As part of her visit, Ciara journeyed to Ouidah, a symbolic city in the transatlantic slave trade, where she walked the Slave Route to the Door of No Return.
The experience was described as an emotional and reflective reconnection with her roots.
The singer expressed gratitude to the Beninese authorities and people for the honor and warm welcome, declaring, “I am Beninese.” The program reflects Benin’s efforts to extend recognition and belonging to descendants of Africans seeking to restore their ancestral connections.
It remains unclear whether Ciara will retain her American citizenship.
