US YouTube star IShowSpeed to get Ghanaian passport as Africa tour ends

January 28, 2026

American YouTuber IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr, has been granted approval for a Ghanaian passport after completing his month-long, live-streamed journey across 20 African nations. The 21-year-old content creator, who boasts over 50 million YouTube subscribers, received the passport based on his maternal connection to Ghana, which he disclosed during his visit. Ghana's Foreign Minister praised the influencer as a "worthy ambassador" and celebrated his contribution to promoting the nation.

Who is affected

IShowSpeed (Darren Watkins Jr), the American YouTuber receiving the passport
Ghana's Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and the Ghanaian government
Ghanaian citizens, both supporters and critics of the decision
IShowSpeed's 50+ million YouTube subscribers and global audience
The African diaspora, particularly African-Americans who have received similar citizenship offers
Communities in the 20 African countries visited during the tour

What action is being taken

No ongoing actions are explicitly stated in the article. The passport approval has already been completed, and the tour wrapped up on Tuesday.

Why it matters

This initiative is significant because it demonstrates Ghana's strategic effort to strengthen connections with the African diaspora and leverage influential figures to reshape global perceptions of the continent. IShowSpeed's tour, watched worldwide, helps counter negative stereotypes about Africa by showcasing diverse cultures and locations to millions of viewers. The passport offering also reflects a broader regional trend among West African nations to reconnect with descendants of enslaved Africans, while simultaneously raising important questions about citizenship criteria and the balance between cultural diplomacy and institutional integrity.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC