Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reportedly approved the issuance of a Ghanaian passport to popular American streamer and internet personality Darren “IShowSpeed” Watkins Jr., following discussions around his growing cultural ties to the country.
The announcement, shared in a public post attributed to legal practitioner and politician Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlights what he described as “irrefutable ties” between IShowSpeed and Ghana.
According to the statement, the decision reflects the government’s recognition of the streamer’s influence and his role in promoting Ghana on the global stage, particularly among young audiences.
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IShowSpeed’s recent visit to Ghana drew widespread attention, with footage of his interactions with locals, participation in cultural activities, and public appearances going viral across social media platforms.
Supporters argue that his presence contributed to positive international exposure for Ghana, reinforcing the country’s soft power and cultural appeal.
The statement also references Ghana’s broader Pan-African outlook, emphasizing pride not only in the nation but in the African continent as a whole. It further notes that both IShowSpeed and Ghanaian content creator Wode Maya are regarded as informal ambassadors who have helped project Ghana’s image internationally.
While official government documentation has not been publicly released to corroborate the announcement, the development has sparked intense debate online, with opinions divided over citizenship, national honors, and the role of digital influencers in diplomacy.
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For many supporters, however, the gesture symbolizes Ghana’s openness and evolving approach to cultural diplomacy in the digital age.