Addis Ababa, January 18, 2026 (FMC) — One of the world’s most followed digital content creators is drawing extraordinary public attention across Africa as he undertakes a 20-country tour aimed at showcasing the continent’s energy, culture and everyday life to a global audience.
Darren Watkins Jr., widely known by his online name IShowSpeed or Speed, has attracted massive crowds—predominantly young fans—during visits to countries including Rwanda, Ethiopia and Zambia. Emotional scenes of children and teenagers greeting the YouTube star have underscored the powerful connection between global digital culture and Africa’s youthful population.
With more than 48 million subscribers, Speed is known for his fast-paced, unscripted livestreams that often last several hours. His African tour has also resonated strongly with audiences in the African diaspora, many of whom have expressed appreciation for the warm reception extended to the American creator, who will turn 21 during the tour.
In Eswatini, Speed was honored during a traditional ceremony at a royal palace, where he received the name “Logijimako,” meaning “the one who runs,” symbolizing strength and protection. On social media platforms, fans across the continent have also embraced him with affectionate nicknames, reflecting the sense of familiarity and connection built through digital media.
Angola, the first stop of his African journey, set the tone for the tour. Reacting live to a fan tribute recreating one of his viral internet expressions, Speed told his global audience:
“I love the love in Africa. The energy here is crazy.”
Over 28 days, Speed and his team are visiting 20 African countries, including Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia and Ghana. His itinerary combines cultural exploration with direct public engagement—sampling local cuisine, learning history, experiencing music and dance, participating in sports, and interacting with fans—while livestreaming his encounters in real time.
“I want to show the world what Africa really is,” he said during his visit to South Africa, where he engaged in popular local activities, learned contemporary dance styles and explored wildlife experiences.
Originally rising to prominence through gaming content, Speed expanded into live, real-world streaming and football-related content in recent years. His energetic and spontaneous style—marked by athletic stunts, humor and celebratory expressions inspired by football star Cristiano Ronaldo—has made him especially popular among younger global audiences.
“I really enjoy his energy and the things he does,” said 16-year-old Zambian fan Chinyama Yonga, who traveled through heavy rain to see Speed in person. “He’s real and unpredictable—and that’s why people connect with him.”
In Zambia, Speed visited the iconic Devil’s Pool at Mosi-oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls), collaborated with renowned hip-hop artist Slapdee, and drew large crowds during an impromptu visit to a local barbershop in Lusaka, as word spread rapidly on social media.
A similar atmosphere followed him in Addis Ababa. Wearing his trademark number seven football jersey—this time in Ethiopia’s national colors—Speed toured the Merkato market, visited the Ethiopian Science Museum, and walked barefoot at the Adwa Victory Memorial in tribute to Ethiopia’s historic victory over Italian forces in 1896.
Discovering Ethiopia’s unique Ge’ez calendar during the visit prompted a lighthearted reaction that delighted viewers worldwide, while his participation in eskista, the country’s dynamic traditional shoulder dance, became one of the most shared moments of the stream.
Local organizer and hotel manager Yonaiel Tadiwos described the visit as impactful.
“His enthusiasm in engaging with our culture was remarkable,” he said, noting Speed’s openness to experiencing Ethiopian traditions and cuisine.
As with any high-profile public appearance, the tour has faced logistical challenges, including crowd control and technical interruptions. Nonetheless, local partners emphasize the broader significance of the exposure.
“Many global creators overlook countries like Ethiopia due to outdated perceptions,” Yonaiel said. “Now millions of people are seeing a different reality—one of culture, history and warmth.”
Observers have offered differing interpretations of the tour’s broader implications. While some view it primarily as entertainment, others see value in the visibility it brings to African societies often underrepresented in global digital narratives.
For parents like Samba Yonga in Zambia, the impact is clear.
“This kind of exposure helps young people—both on the continent and across the diaspora—feel seen and proud,” she said. “It sparks curiosity, confidence and a sense of belonging.”
Whether one creator’s journey can fully reshape global perceptions of Africa remains to be seen. But for many who have watched, followed and participated, the tour has already highlighted a continent defined by energy, hospitality and a vibrant youth culture eager to be seen on its own terms.
This report is adapted from BBC News Africa feature.