Benin opens digital platform for Afro-descendants: return to home!

Benin opens digital platform for Afro-descendants: return to home!

In a historic step, the Beninese government launched the digital platform “My Afro Origins” on July 4, 2023, which deals with the recognition of citizenship for Afro-descendants. This initiative, which aims to strengthen the identity and cultural origins of many people, was legally supported by Law n°2024-31 of September 2, 2024. This creates the opportunity to apply for Beninese citizenship for descendants of sub-Saharan Africans deported during the slave trade. This is not only a step towards justice, but also a gesture of historical responsibility.

The platform is available in multiple languages ​​and provides a secure way to obtain information, submit applications and pay the $100 processing fee. According to the Minister of Justice and Legislation, Yvon Detchenou, this initiative grants the right of return to Afro-descendants, as provided for by the Beninese Constitution. “It is an honor to take this step,” said Detchenou. Access to the platform is open not only to descendants in Africa, but also to those in Europe and South America, which shows that the Beninese government wants to strengthen ties with the diaspora “gouv.bj” reports that ….

Insights into the application process

To obtain Beninese citizenship, applicants must be over 18 years old and provide proof of their Afro-ethnic origins. This evidence may include documents from a parent born before 1944. After a successful review of the application, eligible individuals receive temporary citizenship for three years; This gives them freedom to move, but limits their political rights «africanelements.org» highlights that….

An interesting development occurs with regard to the diaspora, particularly the Afro-Brazilian community. More and more Afro-Brazilians are interested in Benin's citizenship offer as they seek a historical connection to their roots. Brazil was home to over 5.5 million enslaved Africans between 1540 and 1860, and the Bay of Benin was a major center of this forced migration. The current socio-economic conditions in Brazil increase interest in this initiative, which could provide not only cultural but also economic opportunities.

Positive effects on communities

Influential voices like teacher and researcher Emmanuel Sedegan emphasize the importance of recognizing the “double consciousness” of Afro-descendants, as described by W.E.B. Du Bois described. This platform could help strengthen cultural identity and restore connections between descendants and their roots. Additionally, it is also expected to have a positive impact on tourism and the local economy while targeting direct investment from Afro-descendants in Africa. The hope is that this initiative will not only create justice, but also create new economic prospects.

Overall, the My Afro Origins platform shows great potential to promote the connection between Benin and the scattered descendants of Africans, and it remains to be seen what further developments will take place in this regard. If you are looking for more information about the application conditions, you can find it directly on the platform «myafroorigins.bj».