Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that the country has granted citizenship to US YouTuber IShowSpeed, also known as Darren Jason Watkins Jr., following his month-long tour of Africa.
The 21-year-old influencer, who has 50 million YouTube subscribers, was recognised for his “irrefutable ties” to Ghana.
“@wode_maya following our discussions and subsequent confirmation of the irrefutable ties of IShowSpeed to 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. Keep making our great nation Ghana, and our beloved African continent proud.
“Ghana celebrates you both — you remain our worthy ambassadors, and we are ever so delighted to have granted you a diplomatic passport last year. For God, Country & Continent”, the statement reads.
IShowSpeed’s tour, which began December 29, took him to 20 countries, showcased Africa’s diverse culture, tourism, and technology, challenging stereotypes and showcasing a different side of the continent.
The move is seen as part of Ghana’s “Beyond the Return” initiative, encouraging members of the African diaspora to formalise their ties with the nation.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions, with some Ghanaians welcoming the move as a boost to the country’s global image, while others question the value of granting citizenship to foreign celebrities.
