Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has confirmed that the Ministry has approved the issuance of a Ghanaian passport to popular American streamer and internet personality IShowSpeed, citing the influencer’s “irrefutable ties” to Ghana.
In a post on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, Mr Ablakwa said the decision followed discussions that established IShowSpeed’s strong connection to the country.
“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,” the Minister stated.
He encouraged the influencer to continue promoting Ghana and Africa globally, describing him as a worthy ambassador whose impact resonates beyond entertainment.
“This reflects Ghana’s continued openness to embracing members of the global African family who positively project the nation on the world stage,” he added.
The approval comes in the wake of IShowSpeed’s high-octane “Speed Does Africa” tour, which culminated in a massive and memorable homecoming in Ghana on Monday, January 26.
During the visit, the streamer immersed himself in Ghanaian culture and heritage, drawing huge crowds and global attention.
Key highlights of the trip included:
- A traditional enstoolment ceremony at Akropong in the Eastern Region, where he received the Ghanaian name Barima Kofi Akuffo during a spiritual naming ceremony
- Visits to Asenema Waterfalls (which he described as “peaceful” and “calm”) and the palace at Akropong-Akuapem
- A supercar drifting session and jollof rice tasting at Black Star Square in Accra, where he sparked friendly rivalry after declaring Nigerian jollof the winner
- A tour of the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
- Participation in boxing activities in Bukom
- A visit to Hammamat Montia’s Shea Butter Museum in Accra, where his tour concluded with a traditional farewell message delivered through ten maidens
The Ghana Tourism Authority provided logistical support, including visa on arrival, customs clearance for equipment, and coordination with national security and the IGP, but clarified it had no role in planning the itinerary or the jollof tasting session.
Mr Ablakwa also acknowledged others who have similarly represented Ghana positively, noting that diplomatic passports had been granted last year to individuals described as ambassadors of Ghana and the African continent.
