Faith Nyasuguta
American YouTube sensation IShowSpeed is set to receive a Ghanaian passport after concluding a widely followed tour across Africa, marking a symbolic end to a month-long journey that captured the attention of millions worldwide.
Ghana served as the second-to-last destination on the 21-year-old content creator’s 20-country African tour, which was broadcast live to his massive global audience and officially ended on Tuesday. Shortly after his visit, Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, confirmed that his office had approved citizenship documents for the influencer, describing him as a “worthy ambassador” for the country.
Born Darren Watkins Jr., IShowSpeed commands more than 50 million subscribers on YouTube and is regarded as one of the platform’s most influential figures. His “Speed Does Africa” series drew praise for highlighting Africa’s diverse cultures, landscapes and traditions, while challenging long-held stereotypes about the continent.
According to Ablakwa, the passport approval followed verification of what he called the YouTuber’s “irrefutable ties” to Ghana. During one of his livestreams in the country, IShowSpeed told viewers that his mother has Ghanaian roots, a connection that strengthened the case for granting him nationality. The minister encouraged the star to continue representing Ghana and Africa positively, adding that the nation was proud to celebrate him.
The decision has largely been welcomed by fans and many Ghanaians, who see it as recognition of the positive spotlight he brought to the country. However, some critics argued that offering passports to foreign celebrities risks diminishing the value of Ghanaian citizenship.
In recent years, Ghana has actively promoted itself as a cultural and historical home for people of African descent worldwide. In 2024 alone, more than 500 members of the African diaspora, many of them African-Americans, were granted citizenship. High-profile recipients have included music legend Stevie Wonder. Several other West African nations have launched similar initiatives aimed at reconnecting with descendants of those displaced during the transatlantic slave trade.
While in Ghana, IShowSpeed toured key landmarks and immersed himself in local traditions. He travelled to the Eastern Region, participated in a traditional naming ceremony, and wore kente cloth as he received the name Barima Kofi Akuffo.
Throughout his 28-day adventure, he also visited Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco and Ivory Coast, among others, taking part in eye-catching activities such as dancing with the Maasai community in Kenya and even racing a cheetah. He celebrated his 21st birthday in Lagos.
Rolling Stone recently dubbed him the “most influential creator of 2025,” while Forbes estimates his net worth at around $20 million, showcasing his growing global impact.
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