Ghanaian rapper Edem has weighed in on the growing conversation around American streamer IShowSpeed potentially receiving a Ghanaian passport, making a sarcastic joke about how the United States grants green cards to Grammy winners. Edem’s comment came as online discussions intensified over the country’s decision to offer nationality to the popular content creator following his high-profile visit to Ghana.
In a social media post, Edem quipped that the U.S. also issues green cards to artists who win major awards such as Grammys, trending the comment with humour as many people argued about whether bestowing citizenship on IShowSpeed reflects well on Ghana. His remarks highlighted the divided opinions among Ghanaians about the situation, with some supporting the move and others questioning what it means for the value of Ghanaian passports.
The conversation was sparked after the Ghanaian government approved the issuance of a passport to IShowSpeed, following a widely watched 28-day tour of more than 20 African countries that culminated with his arrival in Ghana. During the trip, the streamer took part in cultural activities, engaged with fans and celebrated his ties to Ghana, which strengthened his public image locally and internationally.
Supporters of the government’s decision say granting the passport recognises IShowSpeed’s role in showcasing Ghana’s culture to global audiences and is part of a broader strategy to welcome members of the African diaspora. Critics, however, argue that handing out citizenship to foreign celebrities could lessen the perceived value of national documents. Edem’s sarcastic take reflects this ongoing back-and-forth online, where humour and serious debate mix as Ghanaians continue to share their views.
