Grammy-winning artist Ciara has been officially granted citizenship of Benin, marking an emotional and historic moment in her personal journey to reconnect with her African heritage.
The powerful ceremony was held on July 26, 2025, in Cotonou, Benin’s largest city, and coincided with the United Nations International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent. The event was attended by top dignitaries, including President Patrice Talon, who presided over the occasion.
“Je suis Béninoise”: Ciara Embraces Her Roots
The singer, visibly moved as she received her citizenship certificate, proudly declared:
“Je suis Béninoise”
(I am Beninese)
Ciara’s ancestral link to Benin was confirmed via DNA testing, which revealed her sub-Saharan roots — prompting her to engage with Benin’s groundbreaking citizenship initiative for members of the African diaspora.
A Celebration of Heritage and Connection
Benin’s 2024 citizenship law allows individuals of verifiable sub-Saharan African descent to reclaim citizenship and reconnect with their ancestral homeland. Ciara’s participation and recognition not only celebrates her personal roots but also sheds light on Benin’s bold efforts to:
- Strengthen ties with the African diaspora
- Promote cultural heritage
- Encourage spiritual, cultural, and economic reconnection with the continent
Global Symbol of Unity and Identity
This citizenship ceremony is part of a wider Pan-African movement sweeping across West Africa, with nations like Ghana and Sierra Leone also offering citizenship pathways for African descendants abroad.
Ciara’s journey resonates deeply in this global context — showcasing how modern technology, cultural diplomacy, and intentional policy can unite people across time and continents.
A Star, a Legacy, a Homecoming
Ciara, known for global hits like “Level Up” and “1, 2 Step,” joins a growing list of prominent African-Americans and Caribbean artists reconnecting with their ancestral homelands.
Her powerful words and presence in Benin echo the dreams of many in the diaspora who long for a tangible link to their African origins.
This isn’t just a win for Ciara — it’s a win for heritage, identity, and the enduring power of coming home.
