Celebrity couple Ashanti and Nelly have welcomed their first child together.

The pair, who got married secretly last December after initially dating in the early 2000s, announced the news in a statement to People, sharing that they have a son named Kareem.

The announcement revealed that baby Kareem was born on July 18 of last month.

“Ashanti and Nelly welcomed their baby boy, Kareem Kenkaide Hayes, on July 18, 2024,” the statement to People read.

“The proud and happy parents are so in love with KK!”

Following Ashanti, recognized for her performances on popular tracks such as “What’s Luv?” and “Always on Time,” she posted a photo on Instagram expressing her pride in her body for nurturing their child.

“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!” she wrote.

“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. 😆.”

In a short clip, she added: “Four weeks post-partum. You have no idea what this body can do.”

This marks the couple’s first child together, although Nelly has two grown children from a prior relationship.

Additionally, he took in and raised his sister’s two children following her passing from leukemia in 2005.

Four months ago, the couple announced their engagement and pregnancy to Essence magazine.

Just two months ago, People verified their marriage. Nelly and Ashanti’s romantic journey began in the early 2000s, as the two artists were in a relationship for several years before parting ways in 2013.

Don’t miss out! Get your daily dose of Entertainment news and more straight to your phone. Join Ghana Street Journal Whatsapp channel now!