Ghana has announced plans to grant citizenship to American YouTuber and live streamer Darren Jason Watkins Jr, popularly known as IShowSpeed, following his recent visit to the country as part of his ongoing “Speed Does Africa” tour.
Gatekeepers News reports that the announcement was made by Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who disclosed that his office had approved a Ghanaian passport for the 21-year-old content creator.
Ablakwa described IShowSpeed as a “worthy ambassador” whose visit had projected Ghana positively on the global stage. He said the decision followed the “confirmation of the irrefutable ties of IShowSpeed to Ghana.”
During one of his livestreams while in the country, IShowSpeed told his audience that his mother is from Ghana and said he felt a strong personal connection to the country, describing the experience as feeling like he was “back home.”
Cultural reception
IShowSpeed’s Ghana visit formed part of his continent-wide tour, which has taken him across several African countries. While in Ghana, he participated in cultural activities and was received by traditional rulers in Akropong, Akuapem Traditional Area.
At a naming ceremony, he was given the traditional name Barima Kofi Akuffo. Videos shared online showed him dressed in traditional attire as elders performed symbolic rites.
He also visited iconic sites and cultural landmarks, sharing the experience live with his millions of followers.
The decision to grant him citizenship is seen as recognition of the tour’s positive cultural and global impact on Ghana.
A global digital star
IShowSpeed’s tour has also included Nigeria, Liberia, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and other countries, where large crowds of young fans turned out to welcome him.
With over 50 million YouTube subscribers and more than 45 million Instagram followers, he is one of the most influential digital creators of his generation.
His global impact was recently recognised by Rolling Stone, which named him the Most Influential Creator of 2025. Forbes has also estimated his net worth at about $20 million.
