Ghana has officially granted citizenship to US YouTuber Darren Jason Watkins Jr., popularly known as IShowSpeed, the country’s Foreign Minister Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa announced, marking a historic milestone as the influencer concludes his month-long tour of Africa.
In a post on X on Monday, Ablakwa said the government had confirmed “the irrefutable ties of IShowSpeed to Ghana” and approved the issuance of a Ghanaian passport.
“Keep making our great nation, Ghana, and our beloved African continent proud. Ghana celebrates you,” the minister added.
The 21-year-old African American content creator, born in Cincinnati, Ohio, has become one of the world’s most-followed influencers.
This month, he hit 50 million YouTube subscribers, was named the Most Influential Creator of 2025 by Rolling Stone magazine, and has an estimated net worth of $20 million according to Forbes.
IShowSpeed’s Africa tour, which began on December 29, included visits to 20 countries.
His journey showcased Africa’s diversity to his global audience, including stops at a diamond mine in Botswana, Ethiopia’s culinary hotspots, and the Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco.
The tour has resonated deeply with viewers, particularly Black Americans, who posted emotional reactions praising IShowSpeed for presenting a side of Africa rarely depicted in mainstream media.
Many said his coverage challenged stereotypes, portraying a continent rich in culture, innovation, and opportunity rather than the narrow lens of poverty and conflict.
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