Google on December 11 revealed the most searched Kenyans in 2023 offering a glimpse into the interests that captured netizens’ attention throughout the year.
Google’s Year in Search is an annual list that reveals an analysis of the top trending lists and also spotlights what the world searches to see, learn, and do.
Further, it provides a fascinating glimpse into the interests and concerns that captivated Kenyans throughout the year.
Notably, Googles Year in Search also shows the top trending searches globally, shedding light on the events, personalities, and topics that dominated online conversations.
Top Trending Kenyan Searches
The top trending local personalities in Kenya was topped by Millicent Omanga, a Kenyan businesswoman and politician.
Milicent Omanga trended after an intimate video of a woman circulated on social media with some users alleging that the person in the undated video was her.
The video sparked a wave of discussions and speculations among netizens.
Also Read: Kenyan Personalities at the Bottom of Google Most Searched List
Following closely was Pastor Ezekiel the Kenyan televangelist and founder of the New Life Prayer Centre and Church.
The pastor was in the middle of controversy after his name was linked to the infamous Shakahola cult, leading to his arrest and subsequent closure of his church by the government.
The saga concluded with his release after the completion of investigations, as recommended by the prosecution, yet still kept him on the lips and searches of many Kenyans.
Faith Kipyegon, the three-time world record holder in middle-distance running, claimed the sixth spot.
Notably, her remarkable achievement of winning the World Athletics Championships 1500m and 5000m titles, marking the first-ever 1,500-5,000 meters double at the World Championships by a woman, captivated the nation.
Trending Google Searches on Education and Sports
The sports category was dominated by the Rugby World Cup in France and the notable successes of Saudi Arabian football club Al Nassr, which acquired renowned players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Aymeric Laporte, and Sadio Mané.
Further, in education, searches related to higher education financing, teacher performance appraisal systems, and national examinations took center stage.
On this, the HEF portal, TPAD 2, and NEMIS emerged as the most searched terms, reflecting Kenyans’ keen interest in accessing educational resources and the new CBC program.
Global Personalities that Most Searched by Kenyans 2023
On the global front, the top trending personalities showcase a mix of sports stars, political figures, and entertainment personalities.
For instance, Ukrainian footballer Mykhailo Mudryk led the list, grabbing headlines during a transfer saga that saw Arsenal and Chelsea vying for his signature.
Additionally, English footballer Declan Rice followed closely, making waves with his record-breaking transfer from Westham to Arsenal in a British record fee of £105 million.
Likewise, there were international political figures that showed up on the list, creating variety.
Also Read: AI Tops Trending Google Searches by Kenyans
Ugandan President Museveni featured after drawing international attention for signing an anti-LGBTQ+ law with a death penalty for same-sex acts.
The move by the Ugandan head of state sparked condemnation both locally and globally.
Deaths that Took Kenyans’ Interest on Google
The year’s most searched losses by Kenyans included the passing of former Cabinet secretary for Education, George Magoha, followed by South African rapper Costa Titch in March.
