The visit of a global online star to Africa has drawn massive attention, especially from young people who follow him daily on the internet. Darren Watkins Jr, widely known as IShowSpeed or Speed, is currently on a fast-moving tour across 20 African countries, using livestreams to share his experiences with millions of viewers around the world.
Speed is one of the most followed content creators online, with more than 48 million subscribers on YouTube. His broadcasts are loud, energetic, and unscripted, often running for several hours at a time. As he moves from country to country, large crowds, mainly children and teenagers, have gathered to see him in person. In Rwanda and Ethiopia, some young fans cried as they hugged him, overwhelmed by finally meeting someone they usually only see on a screen.
The reaction has also touched many African Americans, who say they are moved by the warmth and respect shown to a young Black American visiting the continent.
Speed will turn 21 during the tour, which he has named “Speed Does Africa.” In Eswatini, he was even given a local name, “Logijimako,” meaning “the one who runs,” during a traditional ceremony at a royal palace.
Speed began his journey in Angola, where he was briefly overwhelmed by the excitement of fans, including one who recreated a famous meme of his face on a beach. During the livestream, he openly expressed how much the energy and love from Africa meant to him. His tour schedule includes countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and South Africa, all within just 28 days.
Along the way, Speed has tried local food, danced with traditional performers, played sports, attempted risky stunts, and visited historical sites. In South Africa, he joined car-spinning activities, danced amapiano, and had a close encounter with a cheetah. In Zambia, he swam at Devil’s Pool near Victoria Falls, rapped with local artist Slapdee, and got a haircut in a Lusaka township, attracting thousands of fans.
American streamer Ishowspeed during past interview. Photo Courtesy/Forbes.
In Ethiopia, he explored markets, museums, and monuments, including walking barefoot at the Adwa Victory Memorial. He showed surprise at learning about the Ethiopian calendar and fully joined in cultural dances. Local organizers said his willingness to participate made people feel seen and respected.
However, not everyone views the tour positively. Some critics say the visit is shallow entertainment that does not address deeper issues such as poverty and unemployment. Speed’s past controversies, including bans linked to offensive behavior, are also mentioned by those who question his influence.
Despite this, many fans say they like Speed because he is unfiltered and real. Young viewers describe him as funny, energetic, and generous, someone who feels different from polished online creators. Supporters believe his presence helps change how Africa is viewed globally, even if only in small ways.
Whether one streamer can truly shift global perceptions remains uncertain. Still, for many young people across Africa and the diaspora, Speed’s visit has sparked pride, excitement, and a sense of connection that goes beyond the screen.
