TODAY’S PAPER | January 12, 2026 | EPAPER

IShowSpeed Nairobi visit sparks viral moments during Speed Does Africa tour

American streamer IShowSpeed thrilled Nairobi fans with market generosity, intense fan encounters and livestream buzz


Pop Culture & Art January 11, 2026 1 min read
Photo: Imago

American streamer and internet personality iShowSpeed has sparked widespread excitement during his first hours in Nairobi, with viral moments from his visit quickly circulating across social media.

iShowSpeed arrived in the Kenyan capital as part of his ongoing “Speed Does Africa” tour, which focuses on cultural exchange, creative collaborations, and youth-centered digital engagement across the continent. One of his first stops was Kenyatta Market, Nairobi’s largest open-air market, where his interaction with vendors and fans became a major highlight of his livestream.

While browsing through the busy market, the streamer selected a Kenyan-themed shirt priced at KSh 3,000. Despite encouragement from those around him to negotiate, he instead surprised the shopkeeper by paying KSh 20,000. The gesture prompted cheers from onlookers and was widely praised online as an act of generosity.

The market visit was followed by several other viral moments. Less than an hour into his Nairobi livestream, an enthusiastic fan managed to bypass security and convinced iShowSpeed to autograph his face, a scene that spread rapidly on social platforms and underscored the intensity of his Kenyan fan base.

During his stay, iShowSpeed has been joined by Ugandan content creator Tenge Tenge, with the pair collaborating on digital content aimed at strengthening regional creative partnerships. Speculation has also grown around a potential sprint challenge between the YouTuber and Kenya’s star sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala, which fans believe could become one of the country’s most-watched livestream events.

Kenya’s Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano confirmed iShowSpeed’s visit and encouraged Kenyans to suggest locations for him to explore, highlighting the country’s diverse cultural and creative offerings. Nairobi County’s Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, Geoffrey Mosiria, also welcomed the streamer, noting Nairobi’s growing reputation as a hub for young and innovative creators.

From generous market gestures to high-energy fan encounters, iShowSpeed’s Nairobi stop has blended entertainment, culture, and youth engagement, setting the tone for what many expect to be a memorable chapter of his African tour.

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