Ashanti and Nelly have welcomed their first child together, a baby boy named Kareem Kenkaide Hayes, who born on July 18, 2024.
Ashanti took to Instagram earlier today to share that she is four weeks postpartum.
“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, baby,” she wrote.
After months of speculation, Ashanti confirmed her pregnancy back in April, revealing that she and Nelly, were expecting. In addition, the singer revealed that she was engaged to her longtime love.
“This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation,” she told Essence. “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.”
As Mother’s Day rolled around, Ashanti took a moment to express her gratitude for her own mother and manager.
She wrote, “Happy Mother’s Day to the most Amazing Mom, protecter, rider, best friend, cry on shoulder, always lift me up, hilarious, fly, beautiful, baddie, original Momanger Ever!!!!!!!”
With her heart overflowing with love, Ashanti expressed her hopes of emulating her mother’s remarkable qualities in her own journey through motherhood.
“I love u more than words will ever express. I’m soooooo grateful to have u in my life. Praying I can be at least half the mother you are. The Epitome strength, love and sacrifice. So happy to have you by my side on this new journey and next chapter of my life. I love you infinitely.”
Baby Haynes is the first child for Ashanti. Nelly is already a father to daughter Chanelle, born in 1994, and Cornell Hayes III, born in 1999, whom he shares with ex-girlfriend Channetta Valentine. He is also an adoptive father to his late sister’s kids, Shawn and Sydney Thomas.
