US Grammy winner Ciara becomes citizen of Benin under new slavery descendants law

Ciara, the American Grammy-winning singer, has become a citizen of Benin, a West African country, under a new law that grants citizenship to descendants of enslaved Africans. The law aims to forge stronger ties between Benin and the African diaspora, as well as boost tourism in the country. Ciara, who has ancestral roots in Benin, expressed her pride and excitement in becoming a citizen, stating that it is a "full-circle moment" for her. The new law, which was passed in 2022, allows people of African descent, particularly those with ties to Benin, to apply for citizenship. The move is part of Benin's broader efforts to strengthen its connections with the African diaspora and promote cultural exchange. By granting citizenship to descendants of the enslaved, Benin aims to acknowledge its history and provide opportunities for people to reconnect with their ancestral homeland. The decision to grant Ciara citizenship has received widespread attention, as it highlights the growing trend of African countries seeking to engage with their diaspora communities.