IShowSpeed, a popular 21-year-old American YouTuber with over 50 million subscribers, is set to receive a Ghanaian passport after his recent visit to the country.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the approval, citing the influencer’s “irrefutable ties” to Ghana. IShowSpeed’s mother is from Ghana, and he was given the traditional name Barima Kofi Akuffo during a naming ceremony in the country’s eastern region.
The YouTuber’s 28-day “Speed Does Africa” tour, which included stops in Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco, and Ivory Coast, has been praised for showcasing African cultures and breaking stereotypes.
IShowSpeed’s visit to Ghana featured various activities, including a supercar spectacle and traditional ceremonies.
While some Ghanaians welcomed the news, others criticized the government for “devaluing” the country’s passport. Ghana has been promoting itself to the African diaspora, offering citizenship to over 500 people, including US singer Stevie Wonder, in 2024.
