The Social Health Authority (SHA), a Kenya Kwanza initiative to replace the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) leads the top trending news list for Kenyans this year. It is a new healthcare system intended to be the primary healthcare provider for Kenyans. Based on Google’s Year in Search report, this matter touching on people’s health has captured the interest of many.
2024 was the year Kenyans took to the streets to protest the Finance Bill 2024. This was a highly unpopular tax reform bill aimed to increase government revenue. Eventually, the government ceded to the voice on streets by withdrawing the bill. Not surprising, Anguka Nayo, a song that become an anthem for the protest was the most searched lyrics. Starlink, which has grown its subscription base significantly this year, was also a popular search topic.
The list of top trending local personalities is led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whose potential impeachment dominated national discourse. Cabinet Secretaries Rebecca Miano and Soipan Tuya also garnered significant public attention.
On the list of top global trending personalities in 2024 in Kenya, is a mix of political and entertainment figures, led by Jamaican reggae and dancehall icon Vybz Kartel. The U.S. President-Elect and renowned American televangelist Benny Hinn, who returned to Kenya after over two decades to hold the “Healing the Nation” crusade, also made significant waves in global discussions
TikTok popularity in the country was highlighted by the untimely death of popular content creator Brian Chira, who was killed in a hit-and-run accident in March. His passing sparked widespread mourning and grief and thousands, especially from TikTok, attended his funeral to honor his memory and celebrate his significant impact on the content creation industry.
Kenya’s passion for football continued to shine in 2024. Regional and international football competitions captivated the nation. The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Ivory Coast and the European Championship (Euro 2024) hosted by Germany were among the most searched sporting events. Additionally, Kenyan fans eagerly anticipated the 2024 Olympics and sought information on the event’s schedule.
The full list of top trending topics on Google for Kenyans
