Beninese nationality: the government launches a digital platform for Afro-descendants
On July 4, 2025, the Beninese government took a symbolic step by officially launching the platform www.myafroorigins.bj, dedicated to the recognition of Beninese nationality for Afro-descendants from the diaspora.
SUMMARY
This digital portal marks the implementation of a historic provision provided by law n°2024-31 of September 2, 2024. Adopted in 2024, this law, for the first time in Benin’s history, establishes a right of return and citizenship by recognition for descendants of Sub-Saharan Africans deported during the transatlantic slave trade. According to the authorities, it reflects the country’s desire to “reconnect with its children scattered around the world” and to make Benin a land of welcome, memory, and future.
In an official statement, the Minister of Justice, Yvon Détchénou, hailed a significant advancement: “This arrangement gives substance to a law of justice and recognition. By opening the path to Beninese nationality for Afro-descendants, we honor a fundamental principle: the right to return.”
A multilingual, secure, and 100% online portal
Accessible in four languages (French, English, Portuguese, Spanish), the My Afro Origins portal offers an entirely digitized journey. Applicants can verify their eligibility, fill out their file online, pay the processing fees set at 100 US dollars, and track the progress of their request in real time via a secure personal account. The platform complies with international standards for personal data protection, according to the authorities.
The steps of the procedure
The process starts on the site www.myafroorigins.bj, via the tab “Recognition of Beninese nationality for Afro-descendants”. After filling out an identification form, the applicant receives a link by email to continue the procedure. They then complete the required steps before submitting their application.
If the application is deemed compliant, the Beninese administration issues an eligibility certificate within a maximum period of three months. This certificate is a preliminary step in obtaining Beninese nationality.
The procedure includes a second phase: the filing of a formal petition, in person, at the Ministry of Justice on Beninese territory. This step is necessary to receive the official nationality certificate.
A call to the diaspora
The government invites those interested in this opportunity to review the eligibility conditions on the platform. In doing so, Benin reaffirms its desire to respond to a long-standing request from the diaspora, in an international context where memorial recognition initiatives are growing.
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