Ashanti and Nelly have welcomed their first child together, a son named Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, affectionately known as “KK.” The news was confirmed by Ashanti on August 21. The couple, who have been romantically linked since the early 2000s and rekindled their relationship last year, announced that their baby was born on July 18.
During an interview with “Entertainment Tonight,” Ashanti shared that the name Kenkaide honors her father. She expressed her devotion to her son, stating, “My son definitely dictates everything now, he is the priority overall… This little boy has my entire soul wrapped around his finger.”
In her Instagram post on August 21, Ashanti reflected on her journey into motherhood, saying, “I’ve been waiting to be a mom for a long time now but nothing could prepare me for EVERYTHING motherhood brings!” She also celebrated her body for bringing new life into the world.
This year has been significant for Ashanti and Nelly. Earlier in April, Ashanti revealed their pregnancy and in June, it was reported that the couple had married quietly in December 2023. On the red carpet at the 2023 VMAs, Ashanti showcased a clutch featuring a nostalgic photo of the pair and remarked, “Everything is lining up in the universe. So I’m happy.”