American streamer and internet sensation Darren Jason Watkins Jr, popularly known as IShowSpeed, has been officially welcomed into Ghanaian culture following a traditional naming ceremony held during his ongoing African tour.
The 21-year-old content creator arrived in Ghana on January 26 as part of his widely followed “Speed Does Africa” tour. His visit to the country was conducted under the supervision of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), spearheaded by media personality and tourism ambassador Abeiku Aggrey Santana, with the aim of positioning Ghana as a leading cultural and tourism destination for global youth audiences.
The highlight of Speed’s stay took place at the Akropong Palace in the Eastern Region, where traditional leaders honoured him with the Akan name “Barima Kofi Akuffo.” The name carries deep cultural significance — Barima symbolises bravery and strength, Kofi reflects his day-of-birth name in Akan tradition (Friday), and Akuffo represents a respected family lineage associated with the area.
The ceremony was rich in symbolism and tradition, featuring drumming, music, libation, and customary rites. Dressed in traditional regalia, Speed participated fully in the rituals before officially receiving his name. Community members and elders expressed pride in welcoming the global streamer into their cultural heritage, marking the moment as both celebratory and historic.
Beyond the naming ceremony, Speed immersed himself in Ghana’s cultural and historical landscape, visiting key landmarks in Accra, scenic waterfalls, and heritage sites. During a livestream from the capital, he also revealed a personal connection to the country, sharing that his mother is of Ghanaian descent — a moment that resonated deeply with many viewers.
Speed’s energetic presence and real-time engagement brought unprecedented global attention to Ghana’s culture and tourism offerings. With over 50 million YouTube subscribers, his Ghana-based livestreams attracted millions of viewers worldwide, particularly among Gen Z audiences.
His visit also sparked light-hearted cultural conversations online, including playful debates over Ghanaian jollof rice after he shared his reactions to local dishes — moments that further humanised the cultural exchange.
The African tour, spanning 20 countries, was curated and executed by Expedia in collaboration with Chakabars and the Ghanaian travel company Enroute 54, creating a well-organized yet immersive experience across the continent.
Organisers noted that initiatives like these are designed not only to honour international figures but also to strategically showcase African culture on a global stage — blending digital entertainment with authentic cultural storytelling.
Speed’s stop in Ghana has emerged as one of the most talked-about legs of his Africa tour. As he continues his journey across the continent, his experiences in Ghana — particularly the naming ceremony and discovery of his heritage — are set to remain defining moments of his African exploration.
Find Out Where ISHOWSPEED Will Be Going Next!
