Google has released its annual trends report, revealing the most searched global personalities by Kenyans in 2024. The list, generated through Google Trends—a tool that shows search volume across geographies and time periods—features a mix of political figures, entertainers, and religious leaders.
Vybz Kartel Tops the List
Jamaican reggae and dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, whose real name is Adidja Palmer, emerged as the most searched global personality in Kenya this year. Kartel’s release from prison on August 1, 2024, following a 10-year sentence for the alleged killing of Clive “Lizard” Williams in Jamaica, captivated Kenyans. His conviction was overturned by UK judges in March, sparking widespread interest.
Donald Trump and Benny Hinn Follow
Ranked second is Donald Trump, the newly elected 47th President of the United States. Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris in the November 6, 2024, election drew significant attention, making him a key topic of online discussions in Kenya.
Televangelist Benny Hinn took the third spot. Hinn visited Nairobi in February, following an invitation by Kenya’s First Lady, Rachel Ruto, to lead a government-sponsored crusade titled “Healing the Nation.” The event marked Hinn’s return to Kenya after more than two decades and garnered massive public interest.
Kamala Harris and Baltasar Ebang Engonga Round Out the Top Five
U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, who ran for president in 2024, was the fourth most searched global personality. Her campaign and role in U.S. politics kept her in the spotlight.
In fifth place is Baltasar Ebang Engonga, Equatorial Guinea’s Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency. Engonga made headlines following his arrest on October 25, 2024, for allegedly recording over 400 sex tapes featuring the wives of prominent figures in his country.
Other Notable Personalities
Joe Biden, the outgoing 46th President of the U.S., ranked sixth.
Sean “Diddy” Combs, American rapper and producer, came in seventh.
Tanzanian gospel artist Bonny Mwaitege secured the eighth spot after rumors of his death in a road accident on July 22, 2024, were debunked.
King Charles III, the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom, ranked ninth.
Comedian and actor Katt Williams rounded off the list at number ten.
A Reflection of Kenyan Interests
The diversity of the personalities in this year’s trends highlights Kenya’s broad interest in politics, entertainment, and religion. Vybz Kartel’s legal journey, Trump’s political comeback, and Benny Hinn’s crusade all demonstrate the global stories that captured Kenyan attention in 2024.
