IShowSpeed to Receive Ghanaian Passport as Landmark Africa Tour Draws to a Close

US YouTube sensation IShowSpeed is set to be granted a Ghanaian passport following his widely followed visit to the West African nation, marking a symbolic end to his ambitious, continent-spanning tour of Africa.

Ghana was the penultimate stop on the 21-year-old content creator’s live-streamed “Speed Does Africa” tour, which took him to 20 African countries and concluded on Tuesday. The tour has attracted global attention, with millions tuning in to watch his real-time experiences across the continent.

Following his visit, Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced that his office had approved a Ghanaian passport for the influencer, describing IShowSpeed as a “worthy ambassador”. In a post on social media, Ablakwa said the decision followed “confirmation of the irrefutable ties of IShowSpeed to Ghana”.

During one of his live streams in Ghana, IShowSpeed — whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr — told his audience that his mother is from the West African country, a connection that has resonated strongly with fans and supporters across Ghana and the wider African diaspora.

“Keep making our great nation Ghana, and our beloved African continent proud,” Ablakwa wrote, adding: “Ghana celebrates you.”

IShowSpeed is one of the world’s most influential online personalities, boasting more than 50 million subscribers on YouTube. His Africa tour has been widely praised for offering a vibrant, unfiltered look at everyday life across the continent, helping to challenge long-standing stereotypes and highlight Africa’s cultural diversity, creativity and energy.

Many viewers and commentators have credited the tour with boosting interest in African destinations, music, food and traditions, while also contributing significantly to the growth of IShowSpeed’s already massive global platform.

The announcement of the passport approval was met with largely positive reactions from Ghanaians, with many welcoming the move as a celebration of diasporan ties and global cultural exchange. Some, however, questioned whether granting passports to foreign celebrities risks “devaluing” Ghanaian citizenship, sparking a broader debate about nationality, heritage and modern forms of diplomacy.

Despite the mixed reactions, supporters argue that the gesture reflects Ghana’s long-standing openness to the African diaspora and its willingness to embrace influential figures who promote the country positively on the global stage.