The 21-year-old has been handed a passport by Ghana government after his one-day visit to the West African country this week
Ghana has officially granted a Ghanaian passport to American internet sensation Darren Watkins Jr., popularly known as IShowSpeed, following his visit to the country on January 26 as part of his highly publicised tour of Africa.
The announcement was confirmed after discussions led by renowned Ghanaian YouTuber and travel influencer Wode Maya, whose engagement with state authorities helped establish what was described as the “irrefutable ties” between IShowSpeed and Ghana.
In a statement addressed to Wode Maya and the general public, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs approved the issuance of the passport, marking another significant cultural moment in Ghana’s growing influence among global youth and digital creators.
The decision reflects Ghana’s continued commitment to strengthening bonds with members of the African diaspora and global figures who actively promote the continent’s culture, history, and people on the world stage. IShowSpeed’s visit in January drew massive attention online, with millions of followers witnessing his immersion in Ghanaian life, from street culture to interactions with locals.
The statement also celebrated Wode Maya’s ongoing efforts to project Ghana and Africa positively, describing both him and IShowSpeed as worthy ambassadors of the nation and the continent. It further recalled that Wode Maya had previously been honoured with a diplomatic passport last year, in recognition of his consistent contribution to Ghana’s global image.
“Keep making our great nation Ghana, and our beloved African continent proud,” the statement read, underscoring the broader Pan-African spirit behind the gesture.
As Ghana continues to position itself as a welcoming home for Africans and friends of Africa worldwide, the granting of a passport to IShowSpeed stands as a symbolic affirmation of culture, connection, and shared identity — For God, Country, and Continent.
Speed toured 19 African countries in a bid to highlight the positive side of the continent which has been under hyped
