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Nelly and Ashanti are sharing that they welcomed their first child together, a baby boy named Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, on July 18.
A representative confirmed the birth and the baby’s name with People and added “The proud and happy parents are so in love with KK!”
In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Ashanti shares how their son got his name, “His dad named him with a lot of pride,” she said, adding that Kenkaide is a tribute to her own father’s name and Kareem meaning generous, kind and dignified, spoke to the couple.
She also revealed that the baby came a little early, causing Nelly to have to quickly fly in for the birth. “Having all of us in the delivery room and seeing his face for the first time, I cried it was just so emotional and spiritual at the same time,” Ashanti recalled. “Having a vision of this moment for so long…it was such an electrifying feeling.”
The announcement comes after Ashanti shared her first post-delivery photo on Instagram where she posed in disposable underwear from a company called Frida Mom–which specializes in products for pregnant women and new mothers.
“Funny how life’s plans aren’t…always on time.. lol. I’ve been waiting to be a mom for a long time now but nothing could prepare me for EVERYTHING motherhood brings! This is what postpartum looks like I’m loving these super cozy @fridamom shorts! I’m so proud of my body for giving me my baby, baby, baby, baby, boy,” the singer wrote in the photo caption, adding a heart eyes emoji.
The couple reconciled after nearly a decade apart and were married in December 2023.
In April of this year, Ashanti confirmed with Essence that she and Nelly were expecting. “This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation,” she said. “Motherhood is something that I have looked forward to, and sharing this with my family, fiancé, and loyal fans, who have been so supportive of my career, is an amazing experience.”
She also offered some advice to other new moms, “follow your gut instinct and keep strong no matter what the obstacles bring,” adding, “Your child absolutely feels your energy. Make sure that the baby feels secure and safe and you have to have space for you as well. Don’t get too lost into the world of the baby. I think that it’s really important to create a balance.” But, as she’s quick to laugh and point out, “I’m super brand new so I’m not trying to give the golden advice.”
She also shared, “My son definitely dictates everything now, he is the priority overall and I don’t care what it will take, what I have to do, I’m just going to give everything and my all to my son. This little boy has my entire soul wrapped around his finger.”