Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua emerged as the most searched personality in Kenya for 2024, according to Google’s Year in Search report released on Tuesday. The annual report highlights trending topics, offering insight into the subjects and individuals that captured public interest throughout the year.
Gachagua, who faced impeachment earlier in the year, dominated search trends due to the intense national debate surrounding his ousting. The motion to impeach him, tabled successfully by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, thrust the former Deputy President into the spotlight, securing his position as the year’s most Googled figure in Kenya.
Closely following Gachagua in the rankings were Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano and Defence CS Soipan Tuya. The two women leaders gained significant attention for their contributions to the country’s policy and governance, particularly in the wake of major developments in their respective ministries.
Top Searched Personalities in Kenya
The list of the most searched personalities also featured National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji in fourth place, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki rounding off the top five.
Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, journalist Robert Nagila, and businessman-turned-politician Jimi Wanjigi occupied the sixth, seventh, and eighth positions, respectively. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi ranked ninth, while MP Mwengi Mutuse, who played a pivotal role in Gachagua’s impeachment, completed the top ten.
According to Google, the personalities category reflected significant political and social developments in Kenya, with figures like Mutuse drawing attention due to their direct involvement in high-stakes national events.
Major News Trends
In addition to personalities, Kenyans showed keen interest in healthcare reforms, the Finance Bill 2024, and international politics. The Social Health Authority (SHA), introduced to replace the now-defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), was the most searched news topic. The SHA’s launch marked a critical shift in Kenya’s healthcare system, promising accessible and affordable services for citizens.
The Finance Bill 2024 also made headlines, becoming the second most searched topic after President William Ruto declined to sign it into law. The bill’s rejection followed a wave of protests, reflecting growing public discontent over proposed financial policies.
Internationally, the 2024 U.S. Elections captured the attention of Kenyans, ranking third among trending news topics. The elections, known for their global impact, continued to be a focal point of interest.
Losses That Shook Kenya
Among the most searched losses, content creator Brian Chira topped the list. Chira’s untimely death in a hit-and-run accident in March triggered widespread mourning. Thousands of fans, friends, and family members attended his funeral to celebrate his life and the impact of his work as a content creator.
Renowned actor, director, and singer Charles Ouda ranked second in this category, with journalist Rita Tinina following closely. Both Ouda and Tinina were remembered for their immense contributions to Kenya’s entertainment and media industries.
What Google’s Year in Search Reveals
Google’s Year in Search offers a unique glimpse into the interests, concerns, and activities of Kenyans over the past year. The report highlights the interconnectedness of politics, healthcare, and entertainment in shaping public discourse.
As 2024 concludes, the list of top searches underscores the importance of public figures and policies in defining the national conversation. From Gachagua’s impeachment saga to the launch of the Social Health Authority, Kenyans have actively engaged with the events that shape their lives, both online and offline.
