Popular American streamer Darren Jason Watkins Jr., better known as IShowSpeed, has drawn global attention after online biographies were updated to list him as “American‑Ghanaian” and include the name Barima Kofi Akuffo.
The 21‑year‑old YouTube star, who has tens of millions of followers across social media, was recently honored in Ghana during a cultural ceremony in Akropong, where he was given the Akan name Barima Kofi Akuffo. The change to his Wikipedia and Google profiles circulated widely on Wednesday, sparking debate among fans about whether the designation reflected symbolic recognition or a legal shift in nationality.
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, said the government had approved a Ghanaian passport for Watkins, calling him a “worthy ambassador.” The announcement followed the streamer’s “Speed Does Africa” tour in January, during which he highlighted Ghanaian music, culture and lifestyle.
While many in Ghana have celebrated the recognition, others have questioned the legal implications of the update. Watkins has not publicly confirmed any change in citizenship, but his growing ties to Ghana have cemented his influence across Africa and the wider Black diaspora.
