The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that the Ministry has approved the issuance of a Ghanaian passport to American YouTuber and livestreaming sensation, Darren Watkins Jr., popularly known as IShowSpeed.
In a statement shared on social media on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, Mr Ablakwa said the decision followed engagements with Ghanaian YouTuber Wode Maya and further verification of what he described as the “irrefutable ties” between IShowSpeed and Ghana.
“I am pleased to inform you and our compatriots that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has approved the issuance of a Ghanaian Passport to IShowSpeed,” the Minister stated.
He commended both IShowSpeed and Wode Maya for projecting Ghana and Africa positively on the global stage, describing them as worthy ambassadors of the continent. Mr Ablakwa also recalled that the two content creators were granted diplomatic passports last year in recognition of their role in promoting Ghana internationally.
The announcement comes on the back of IShowSpeed’s recent visit to Ghana, which formed part of his ongoing Africa tour. The 21-year-old internet personality arrived in the country on Sunday and spent Monday livestreaming his visit to millions of followers worldwide.
During the livestream, he toured several notable landmarks, including Akropong, the Black Star Square and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, offering his global audience a glimpse into Ghana’s history, culture and everyday life. The broadcast attracted significant online attention, with fans across continents tuning in to follow his movements in real time.
IShowSpeed, who commands over 50 million subscribers across his YouTube platforms, has emerged as one of the most influential digital creators of his generation. Recently crowned Streamer of the Year, he has built a massive following through high-energy livestreams that blend travel, culture and spontaneous interaction with fans.
Unlike many content creators who remain largely home-based, IShowSpeed has taken his livestreams across the world, visiting destinations in Southeast Asia, Europe, Australia and now Africa. His current tour has included stops in countries such as Nigeria, Benin, Kenya, South Africa and Ghana.
Observers say his approach reflects the growing power of livestreaming in the digital era, offering real-time, unfiltered engagement that resonates strongly with younger audiences globally. In an age increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and digital platforms, IShowSpeed’s success highlights how immersive content continues to redefine storytelling, tourism promotion and cultural exchange.
The approval of a Ghanaian passport for the popular streamer has been widely welcomed by fans, many of whom view the move as a symbolic affirmation of Ghana’s openness to the African diaspora and global cultural influencers.
