Benin grants citizenship to 28 afro-descendants in historic ceremony
Benin welcomes 28 Afro-descendants into citizenship fold
In a landmark move, Benin has officially granted citizenship to 28 Afro-descendants, deepening ties with its global diaspora through a symbolic gesture of historical reckoning.
On July 30, 2026, the Ministry of Justice and Legislation conducted a poignant ceremony at the Cotonou Judicial Complex, where 28 Afro-descendants were presented with official Beninese citizenship certificates. This event represents a significant step in the nation’s ongoing efforts to acknowledge its historical legacy and foster stronger connections with the descendants of its diaspora.
Presided over by the Keeper of the Seals and Minister of Justice, Yvon Detchenou, the ceremony was attended by Foreign Minister Corinne Amori Brunet, Justice Ministry Technical Advisor Rose-Marie Sossa, and other key political and administrative figures. The gathering underscores Benin’s commitment to its memorial policy and its dedication to bridging ties with the global Black community.
Honoring history and resilience
During the event, Justice Ministry Technical Advisor Rose-Marie Sossa emphasized the symbolic significance of the date—July 30—World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. She described the certificate presentation as an act of memory, resilience, and hope for the future.
She further highlighted that obtaining Beninese citizenship grants recipients the right to participate fully in civic life while also enabling them to pass citizenship to their descendants. “With this citizenship, you are now bound to Benin—not only to its past but to its laws, values, and institutions,” she declared.
Emotional reunions and restored identities
The 28 new citizens, hailing from the United States, Haiti, and other countries, shared moving reactions to their newfound status. God Win Louis, an Afro-Haitian recipient, expressed his profound connection: “My ancestors came from Sakété and Allada. I’ve visited Benin ten times before, but today, I feel truly Beninese.”
Fresner Delva, another recipient from the United States, described the moment as a long-overdue correction of historical injustice. “This recognition heals wounds that have lingered for centuries,” he reflected.
