Kenya’s 2025 search landscape painted a vivid picture of a nation deeply engaged with major sporting events, shifting political dynamics, and significant global developments.
Google’s Year in Search report revealed that Kenyans turned to the internet throughout the year to make sense of unfolding events, leading personalities, and international stories that shaped public discourse.
Topping the trending news list was CHAN, the African Nations Championship, which captured the country’s full attention.
The tournament’s prominence in the search rankings reflected Kenya’s enduring passion for football. Fans followed match updates, team preparations, and continental rivalries with heightened interest, driving CHAN to become the most searched news item of the year.
The excitement surrounding the championship reaffirmed football’s place at the heart of Kenya’s national identity.
In politics, Raila Odinga remained at the centre of national discussion. His strong showing among trending searches demonstrated the public's continued fascination with his political influence and activities.
Whether tied to public appearances, statements or speculation about his future roles, Odinga’s name remained a dominant feature across Kenyan search queries in 2025.
The Social Health Authority (SHA) also drew widespread interest as Kenyans sought clarity on the new healthcare system and its potential effects on access, insurance and public health.
The changes sparked widespread queries as citizens tried to understand how the reforms would shape the country’s medical landscape. Closely related was the increased search activity around Afya Yangu, showing the public’s desire to navigate and understand evolving healthcare programs.
Outside Kenya, global news also played a significant role in shaping Kenyan curiosity. The death of Portuguese football star Diogo Jota was one of the most searched tragedies of the year, illustrating how deeply sports connects Kenyan audiences to global events.
Jota’s passing struck a chord across continents, prompting widespread online reflection and news consumption.
International politics and leadership transitions also featured heavily. Searches around Charlie Kirk highlighted growing Kenyan interest in global political commentary, while queries about Pope Francis reflected worldwide attention on Vatican developments.
Similarly, increased searches for Uganda’s President Museveni and former IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati demonstrated the public’s desire to stay informed on regional and national governance.
Questions over Kenya’s own electoral processes surfaced through trending searches on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), underscoring ongoing debates around democratic reforms, election integrity, and political accountability.
Together, the year’s top news searches reveal a Kenya that is curious, globally connected, and politically alert. Whether drawn by sports triumphs, policy shifts, or international events, Kenyans used search to gather clarity, stay informed and engage with issues that matter most
