Model Kimora Lee Simmons has dismissed reports she exchanged vows with actor Djimon Hounsou in a secret African 'wedding' last summer, insisting it was simply a commitment ceremony.

The couple, who are expecting their first child together, began dating after Lee Simmons split from her rap mogul husband Russell Simmons in 2006. Reports this week claimed the pair decided to celebrate their love with an unofficial 'wedding' in Hounsou's native Benin, even though the union could not be legally recognized in the U.S. because Lee Simmons' divorce was not finalized until January.

The Baby Phat designer's spokesperson has confirmed a ceremony took place - but it was only to show their commitment to one another, as opposed to an actual wedding ritual, reports Usmagazine.com. The rep adds, "The couple is very happy and dedicated to each other one hundred per cent."

A source claims the loved-up couple simply wanted to "show how committed to each other they are in front of his family." However, the insider insists the expectant parents are not planning to wed just yet: "(They're) not engaged. Everything is great with them and they are happily awaiting the birth of their child together."

Lee Simmons also has two daughters from her marriage to the Def Jam Records co-founder: Ming, eight, and Aoki, six.

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(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)