A special ceremony at the Cotonou judicial complex on July 30 saw the Ministry of Justice and Legislation hand over official Beninese citizenship certificates to 28 Afro-descendants reclaiming their ancestral ties. The event, steeped in deep meaning, reflects the country’s commitment to historical recognition and symbolic reparations.

The ceremony was led by the Keeper of the Seals and Minister of Justice and Legislation, Yvon Detchenou, alongside Corinne Amori Brunet, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Rose-Marie Sossa, Technical Advisor to the Minister of Justice. The gathering underscored a pivotal moment in Benin’s memory-driven policies and diaspora engagement.

Honoring history and resilience

Speaking on the significance of the date, Rose-Marie Sossa highlighted that July 30—World Day Against Trafficking in Persons—was deliberately chosen to align with the global fight against human exploitation. She described the citizenship ceremony as a celebration of memory, resilience, and hope.

The new Beninese citizens now gain full civic participation rights and the ability to pass their nationality to future generations. Rose-Marie Sossa emphasized the responsibility that comes with citizenship: “This Béninois identity binds you to our nation’s history, values, and laws.”

Voices from the new citizens

For the recipients—hailing from the United States, Haiti, and beyond—the moment was deeply emotional. God Win Louis, a Haitian of Beninese heritage, shared his long journey: “My ancestors came from Sakété and Allada. I’ve visited Benin for a decade. Today, I feel even more Béninois than ever.”

Fresner Delva, an Afro-descendant from the U.S., called the recognition a historic correction of past injustices and a restoration of dignity long denied.