Raila Odinga Tops Google’s Most Searched Public Figures in Kenya for 2025
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was the most searched public figure in Kenya in 2025, according to Google’s annual Year in Search report.
Odinga, who died on 15 November at the age of 80 while receiving treatment in India, dominated online interest throughout the year. His political career, often described as enigmatic, prompted a surge in searches for the term “enigma meaning” as Kenyans sought to interpret his legacy.
The report also listed Wafula Chebukati, the former chair of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), among the most searched personalities. Chebukati died in February at 64 after a short hospitalisation in Nairobi, underscoring continued public focus on electoral institutions and their leadership.
Sport featured prominently in Kenya’s search activity. The African Nations Championship (CHAN) was the most searched news item of the year. The tournament attracted widespread attention, with fans closely following team preparations, rivalries and match updates.
International football events also influenced search behaviour. The death of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota in a road accident in Spain in July, alongside his brother Andre Silva, ranked among the most searched global tragedies. His passing resonated with Kenyan audiences, reflecting the global reach of the sport.
Domestically, the death of teacher Albert Ojwang in police custody in Homa Bay in June became one of the year’s most searched stories. Arrested over a post on X described as “derogatory,” Ojwang was reported by police to have taken his own life. An autopsy later revealed he had been strangled, leading to widespread calls for accountability and justice.
Global leadership changes also drew significant interest. Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday at the age of 88, was among the top searches, reflecting the Vatican’s global influence. Searches for American commentator Charlie Kirk and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni further illustrated Kenya’s engagement with international political discourse.
Healthcare reform was another major topic. The creation of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and its programme Afya Yangu generated extensive searches as Kenyans sought information on how the new system would affect access to medical services and insurance.
Other figures who appeared prominently in the rankings included journalist Kimani Mbugua, author Ngugi wa Thiong’o, lawyer Kyalo Mbobu and cultural personalities such as Hulk Hogan.
