American streamer and YouTuber IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., is nearing the conclusion of a significant 28-day tour across Africa. This journey aims to highlight the continent’s rich cultural diversity, countering prevalent narratives that often focus on poverty and violence.
The tour, which encompasses 19 countries, commenced in Angola in late December 2023. During his travels, Watkins attended the Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco on January 18, 2024, celebrated the Senegalese national soccer team’s victory with local fans, and marked his 21st birthday in Nigeria, where he surpassed 50 million YouTube subscribers.
As the tour progressed, Watkins arrived in Ghana and expressed a deep emotional connection to the country. “I am back home, there ain’t no better feeling,” he remarked, emphasizing his ancestry ties to West Africa. His activities in Ghana included sampling traditional dishes like jollof rice, meeting a local traditional ruler, and experiencing a massage at the shea butter museum.
Watkins’ series, titled “Speed Does Africa,” features live streams on YouTube that can last up to nine hours. Throughout these videos, he engages with local cultures by trying various foods, learning traditional dances, and competing with local athletes, often filled with exuberant enthusiasm. His presence has attracted large crowds, with many followers eager to connect with him at various stops.
In Senegal, Pape Seye, a local resident, highlighted the significance of Watkins’ visit to the House of Slaves on Gorée Island, a poignant reminder of the Atlantic slave trade. “Americans, especially Black Americans, need to know that our histories are tied,” Seye commented, referring to the shared ancestry many may have with the island.
Despite the positive reception from many, there has been criticism regarding Watkins’ online persona. Beninese influencer Nelly Mbaa, also known as Afro Chronik, voiced concerns that IShowSpeed represents a stereotype that prioritizes spectacle over substance. Mbaa criticized his exaggerated and often controversial performances, suggesting that his audience might not support a more nuanced portrayal of his character.
With over 50 million YouTube subscribers, 45 million Instagram followers, and 47 million TikTok followers, Watkins has built a brand rooted in high-energy content that often sparks debate. His online journey has not been without controversy, as he faced bans from professional online gaming for inappropriate remarks and a temporary suspension from YouTube for displaying sexual content in a video game.
As the tour draws to a close, IShowSpeed is set to visit Namibia, marking what is expected to be the final stop in his extensive exploration of Africa. His experience is reflective of a broader interest among African American internet users in reconnecting with their heritage and understanding the complexities of their shared histories.