Google Unveils Kenya’s Year in Search 2024

Google has released its Year in Search 2024 report, highlighting the topics that captured Kenyans’ attention throughout the year. The annual analysis sheds light on the trending searches and offers insights into what people sought to learn, explore, and experience.

From major events like SHA, the Finance Bill 2024, and the US Elections to trending figures such as Gachagua, Rebecca Miano, and Soipan Tuya, alongside global phenomena like the Olympics and Euro 2024, these searches reflect the issues that resonated most with Kenyans.

Top Trending Topics in Kenya

Key searches included SHA, Gachagua, Vybz Kartel, Brian Chira, AFCON, Supacell, and “Anguka Nayo” lyrics.

Trending News

SHA dominated the news category as Kenyans showed interest in the new Social Health Authority, which replaced the NHIF. The Finance Bill 2024 also sparked significant debate, especially among younger Kenyans, leading to widespread protests and eventual withdrawal by the government. The US Elections 2024 ranked third, reflecting global political interest.

Top 10 Trending News:

1. SHA
2. Finance Bill 2024
3. US Elections 2024
4. Gachagua Impeachment
5. Haiti
6. Cyclone Hidaya
7. Starlink Kenya
8. Gen Z
9. SHIF
10. Ford Foundation

Trending Local Personalities

Former Deputy President Gachagua led the list after his impeachment captured national attention. He was followed by Rebecca Miano, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, and Soipan Tuya, the Cabinet Secretary for Defence.

Top 10 Local Personalities:

1. Gachagua
2. Rebecca Miano
3. Soipan Tuya
4. Noordin Haji
5. Kindiki
6. Robert Nagila
7. Kawira Mwangaza
8. Jimmy Wanjigi
9. John Mbadi
10. Mutuse

Trending Global Personalities

Jamaican reggae star Vybz Kartel topped the list of global personalities, followed by US President-Elect Donald Trump and televangelist Benny Hinn, who made headlines with his “Healing the Nation” crusade in Nairobi.

Top 10 Global Personalities:

1. Vybz Kartel
2. Donald Trump
3. Benny Hinn
4. Kamala Harris
5. Baltasar Engonga
6. Joe Biden
7. Diddy
8. Bonny Mwaitege
9. King Charles
10. Katt Williams

Trending Losses

The passing of content creator Brian Chira, who died in a hit-and-run accident, was the most searched loss in Kenya. Other notable searches included actor Charles Ouda and journalist Rita Tinina.

Top 10 Trending Losses:

1. Brian Chira
2. Charles Ouda
3. Rita Tinina
4. Kelvin Kiptum
5. Fred Omondi
6. Allan Kiuna
7. Mr. Ibu
8. Njambi Koikai
9. Lizzie Wanyoike
10. Peter Morgan Heritage