R&B star Ashanti, known for her hit song “Foolish,” has become a mother for the first time at the age of 43. She and her husband, rapper Nelly, 49, welcomed their baby boy, Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, on July 18, 2024.
Ashanti made the heartwarming announcement on Instagram today, August 21, sharing a photo and video of her postpartum body. “Four weeks postpartum,” she said in the video, expressing amazement at what her body has accomplished. In the caption, she reflected on her journey into motherhood, acknowledging the challenges and joys of the “fourth trimester.”
“Funny how life’s plans aren’t always on time,” Ashanti wrote. “I’ve been waiting to be a mom for a long time now, but nothing could prepare me for EVERYTHING motherhood brings! I’m so proud of my body for giving me my baby, baby, baby, baby, baby.”
In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Ashanti revealed that their son’s name, Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, was chosen in honor of her father. The baby was born a little earlier than expected, adding an extra layer of surprise to their new journey as parents.
Ashanti and Nelly, who secretly tied the knot in December 2023, are overjoyed with the newest addition to their family. Nelly, who has two adult children, Chanelle and Cornell Haynes III, from previous relationships, also adopted Shawn and Sydney Thomas, the children of his late sister Jackie Donahue.
