Crossword Genius

Former protectorate where somebody was born? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

natal

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'former protectorate' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both locations as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see an association between them that I can't see?

'somebody was born?' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'born?' could be 'nat' and 'nat' is found within the answer.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'where' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for natal that I've seen before include "Brazilian port" , "South African region" , "Of or from one's birth - in S African province" , "South African place" , "dealing with delivery" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.
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