Benin has launched a landmark initiative offering citizenship to people of African descent in the diaspora, positioning itself as a gateway for reconnection, cultural restoration, and historical justice. The programme, supported by prominent figures including American filmmaker Spike Lee, is part of the West African nation’s broader effort to acknowledge the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade and rebuild ties with descendants of those forcibly taken from its shores.
For Isaline Attelly, a native of the Caribbean island of Martinique, the policy carries deep personal meaning. She had been living in Benin for nearly a year when she discovered that her family’s ancestral roots traced back to the country. The revelation transformed her experience from that of a visitor to one of return, reinforcing the emotional and symbolic power of the citizenship offer.
Benin, once home to the Kingdom of Dahomey and a major departure point for enslaved Africans, has in recent years taken visible steps to confront its history. These include memorials, museums, and annual remembrance events. The new citizenship pathway builds on those efforts by providing legal recognition and belonging to members of the African diaspora, particularly those from the Americas and the Caribbean.
Officials say the initiative is designed not only as a gesture of reconciliation, but also as a practical framework to encourage diaspora engagement in national development. New citizens are expected to contribute skills, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange, strengthening Benin’s economy and global connections.
Spike Lee, who has publicly traced his ancestry to the region through DNA testing, has been a vocal advocate for reconnecting African Americans with their roots. His involvement has helped draw international attention to Benin’s programme and sparked wider conversations about identity, belonging, and reparative justice.
Applicants for citizenship are required to demonstrate African ancestry and a commitment to Benin’s values and laws. While the process is still evolving, authorities say interest has been strong, with inquiries from across the United States, the Caribbean, Latin America, and Europe.
For many in the diaspora, the offer represents more than a passport. It is seen as an opportunity to reclaim history, restore dignity, and establish a tangible link to ancestral homelands. As Benin opens its doors, it is redefining citizenship not only as a legal status, but as an act of remembrance and reconnection across generations.
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