American YouTuber and live streamer IShowSpeed has reached a major milestone, surpassing 50 million subscribers on YouTube on his 21st birthday while streaming live from Nigeria as part of his ongoing Africa tour.
The popular content creator, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., celebrated the achievement in real time with fans across the world, marking a moment that quickly trended online.
Even after moving on to different countries, viewers have noticed that he continues to use the Swahili greeting “habari yako” on his livestreams, a phrase he picked up during his visit to Kenya.
IShowSpeed launched his ambitious Africa tour on December 29, 2025, with plans to visit 20 countries in just 28 days.
Throughout the journey, he has been livestreaming his experiences, interactions, and cultural encounters to a global audience of millions.
His stop in Kenya on January 11, 2026, stood out as one of the most talked-about moments of the tour.
The streamer received a warm welcome from fans, celebrities, and political leaders, highlighting the country’s growing influence in global digital culture.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano took to her X account to officially welcome him, while President William Ruto also shared a special video message on his social media platforms.
“Jambo IShowSpeed, welcome to Kenya, karibu Kenya. Kenya is not just another country; Kenya is a pulse, a feeling. Kenya is home. This is magical Kenya, the origin of wonders,” Ruto said in the clip.
The viral moment further boosted IShowSpeed’s popularity across Africa, with fans praising his effort to embrace local languages and cultures.
As his tour continues, the YouTube star’s blend of entertainment and cultural exchange is drawing even more attention to the continent on the global stage.
