- Grammy-winning artist Ciara has been granted Beninese citizenship, becoming one of the first prominent individuals to benefit from a new law offering nationality to descendants of slaves.
- This move is part of Benin's wider initiative to attract the Black diaspora, acknowledge its historical involvement in the transatlantic slave trade, and boost tourism centred on remembrance sites.
- The new law, passed in September, allows individuals over 18 without other African citizenship to apply by providing proof of slave lineage, with applications processed via the 'My Afro Origins' digital platform.
- Benin openly acknowledges its significant historical role in the transatlantic slave trade and has undertaken reconciliation efforts including a presidential apology in 1999.
- Memorial tourism, particularly in Ouidah with sites like the Slave Route and the Door of No Return, is a key approach to attract Afro-descendants, with Ciara touring these locations after her citizenship ceremony.
IN FULL
