Google searches 2024: SHA, Gachagua, Vybz Kartel top Kenya’s list

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Wondering what the Social Health Authority (SHA) conversation is all about? Google it, getting a head start even before watching the news to break it down for you.

At a time when there are multiple search engines and social media sites packed with information, Kenyans are taking it upon themselves to get educated about all the things, people and subjects that matter to them.

This year, Kenyans’ Google searches ranged from matters concerning legislation, to international politics.

The search engine has unveiled the topics and personalities that were most searched for this year.

When it came to news, the Social Health Authority (SHA), a new healthcare system launched to replace the now defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) as the primary healthcare provider for Kenyans captured the interest of Kenyans.

This topped the list followed by the Finance Bill 2024, a legislation that proposed changes to the country’s tax laws with an aim to generate revenue for the government to fund its programs and address economic challenges sparked search interest this year.

“Kenyans were concerned about the Finance Bill 2024, which proposed increased taxes. Public protests, mainly by Gen Z, led to the government withdrawing the bill,” Google notes in a statement to Habari Digital, adding that the US Elections 2024 was third place on the top trending news in Kenya this year.

The report notes that in the top trending personalities category locally, the former Deputy President Gachagua leads, after his impeachment became a national topic of debate.

“He is followed by Rebecca Miano, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, and Soipan Tuya, the Cabinet Secretary for Defense.”

The top trending global personalities in 2024 are a mix of political figures, and entertainment personalities led by Jamaican reggae and dancehall superstar, Vybz Kartel, the US President-Elect Donald Trump, and American televangelist Benny Hinn, who held a crusade dubbed “Healing the Nation,” at the Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi in February, an event that marked his return to Kenya after more than two decades.

Celebrated Jamaican artiste Vybz Kartel was released from prison on July 31 after being jailed in 2014, much to the excitement of his fans.

BBC reports: “He had been accused of killing of Clive “Lizard” Williams in Jamaica but has always maintained his innocence.”

“Vybez is known as one of Jamaica’s most popular artists and has collaborated with performers such as Jay-Z, Eminem and Rihanna. His best-known hits include Clarks, Ramping Shop and Summer Time, and his success led to him launching lines of shoes, alcohol and condoms.”

Google notes that Kenyans’ love for football continued to manifest this year, with the sports list being dominated by AFCON which took place between January and February in Ivory Coast and was filled with goals, drama, and unexpected outcomes.

“This was followed by Euro 2024, which was hosted in Germany from between June and July involving 24 teams. Kenyans also searched for the Olympics 2024 Schedule.”

Kenyans also looked up prominent personalities who passed away this year.

When it came to loss, they searched about the death of content creator Brian Chira, who sadly succumbed after a hit and run accident in March. They also looked up the passing of renowned actor, director and scriptwriter Charles Ouda.

Google further unveiled an intriguing report on recipes, films, “how tos” and the “what’s” that Kenyans were curious about.

“Kenyans satisfied their culinary curiosities with searches for chicken curry recipe, pumpkin soup recipe, and various other delectable dishes, reflecting their growing love for diverse flavours.”

The report adds: “Entertainment-wise, Supacell, Damsel, and Shogun topped the list of trending movies and TV shows, while Kenyans were also keen on finding the lyrics to popular songs like Anguka Nayo, Kudade and Hit and Run.

More top searched questions included How to Check KCSE Results 2023, How to update token meter, What is Air BnB and What is endometriosis.