American YouTuber IShowSpeed, known in private life as Darren Watkins Jr., has expressed overwhelming joy after learning he had been granted Ghanaian citizenship following his recent tour across Africa.
The 21-year-old internet sensation completed a 20-country livestreamed tour on January 28, 2026, visiting several nations including Nigeria, Benin, South Africa, Eswatini, Rwanda and Namibia, with Ghana as one of the final destinations on his itinerary.
While in Ghana, the popular streamer embraced local traditions, explored cultural sites, and was honoured with the Ghanaian name Barima Kofi Akutto, symbolising his connection to the country.
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, officially announced on January 28, 2026, that his office had approved a Ghanaian passport for the YouTuber.
The Minister cited the streamer’s “irrefutable ties” to Ghana and encouraged him to continue promoting the nation and the African continent globally.
On February 12, 2026, IShowSpeed shared his reaction during a livestream with his more than 50 million YouTube subscribers.
He searched his name online to confirm the news and read aloud that he had been granted Ghanaian citizenship, meaning he now holds dual citizenship in both the United States and Ghana.
Clearly thrilled, he played Ghana’s national anthem live and celebrated the milestone, telling viewers he could not believe the news was real.
The streamer also explored the travel opportunities available with his Ghanaian passport and discovered he could visit several countries visa-free or obtain visas on arrival, including Kenya, South Africa, Senegal, Barbados, Jamaica, Singapore and Maldives.
Excited by the discovery, he told his audience he was looking forward to travelling freely to many destinations using his Ghanaian passport.
“So, I can go to any of these countries with just no visa. I can just pull up,” he told his audience, clearly thrilled by the development.
The development highlights Ghana’s continued efforts to strengthen ties with the African diaspora and recognise global personalities who promote the country on the international stage.
Source: Queen Diamond
