Ghanaian travel vlogger and YouTube personality Wode Maya has broken his silence following public backlash over the government’s decision to grant a Ghanaian passport to American internet streamer IShowSpeed, choosing to focus on gratitude rather than engaging the criticism.
The controversy emerged after the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced that IShowSpeed would be issued a Ghanaian passport following his recent visit to the country. The decision quickly generated mixed reactions, with sections of the public praising the move as a cultural and tourism boost, while others questioned the process and timing.
IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jnr, arrived in Ghana on January 27, 2026, as part of his highly publicised Speed Does Africa tour. The livestreamed tour, which began in December 2025, has taken the American streamer across several African countries, including Morocco, Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Benin, Angola, Zambia, Eswatini and Senegal. His stop in Ghana attracted widespread international attention and significant online engagement for the country.
Following the visit, Mr Ablakwa revealed that the decision to grant IShowSpeed a Ghanaian passport arose from discussions with Wode Maya, who played a role in facilitating aspects of the tour. In a post shared on X on January 27, the minister confirmed the approval, noting the potential cultural and global visibility benefits for Ghana.
As public debate intensified, Wode Maya responded on January 29. Rather than addressing the criticism directly, he expressed appreciation to the Foreign Affairs Minister for approving the request. He also extended a warm message to IShowSpeed, encouraging him to consider Ghana a home away from home.
Wode Maya’s response has further fueled discussion online, with supporters commending his diplomatic approach, while critics continue to raise questions about the broader implications of the decision.
