Ghanaian passport for iShowSpeed divides opinion as government defends streamer as ‘worthy ambassador’

The announcement, made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, follows the 21-year-old’s high-profile "Speed Does Africa" tour, which culminated in a massive homecoming in Ghana on Monday, January 26.

In a statement released on Tuesday, January 27, Minister Ablakwa confirmed that the Ministry had approved the passport after establishing what he described as the influencer’s “irrefutable ties” to the country. 

The Minister noted that this move reflects Ghana’s openness to the "global African family" and honours those who project the nation positively on the world stage. 

Ablakwa described iShowSpeed as a “worthy ambassador” whose impact resonates beyond mere entertainment.  This follows a series of cultural immersions by the streamer, including a traditional naming ceremony at Akropong, in eastern Ghana, where he was given the name Barima Kofi Akuffo.

During his visit, iShowSpeed toured historic landmarks such as the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and the Black Star Square. 

The announcement has divided public opinion.

While the streamer’s visit was hailed and some have defended the Ministry’s decision others have described the government's actions as unserious questioning the sanctity and value of the Ghanaian passport versus the government's strategy of using celebrity influencers to boost the country's global image, a thing that has happened in the past where world-famous people have been awarded citizenship.

In 2024, under the previous Ghanaian government, legendary American singer Stevie Wonder was awarded a citizenship in a high-profile ceremony.

During his stream in Ghana, iShowSpeed mentioned plans of returning to Africa and hinted at purchasing a property on the continent. 

With him being awarded a Ghanaian passport and saying live on stream that his mother originated from the West African nation, he could be making Ghana his second home.