Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has hailed American YouTuber IShowSpeed’s visit to Kenya as a powerful demonstration of the country’s position as Africa’s leading hub for digital creativity and youth culture.

In a statement posted on her X account on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Miano said the global social media sensation’s #SpeedDoesAfrica tour generated unprecedented engagement and placed Kenya at the top of his African tour rankings.

“With the livestream shattering records, it placed Kenya at the very top of his African tour rankings. In a breathtaking moment captured live, Speed officially crossed the 48 Million Subscriber mark right here in Nairobi!” Miano stated.

She described the overwhelming public response to the visit, emphasising the energy and enthusiasm displayed by Kenyans.

“From the moment he landed, the energy has been unmatched, proving why Kenya is the leading hub for digital creativity and youth culture in Africa,” the CS said.

Diverse cultural experiences

Miano detailed the various experiences IShowSpeed enjoyed during his Kenyan tour, highlighting how they showcased the country’s unique offerings.

At Nairobi National Park, the YouTuber got up close with Kenya’s wildlife, including feeding a baby rhino he named ‘Rhinaldo.’

“Speed got up close with our majestic wildlife, even feeding a baby rhino he named ‘Rhinaldo.’ It’s a beautiful reminder that we are the only city in the world with a National Park at its doorstep,” Miano noted.

The visit also included cultural activities such as learning to cook ugali and chapati, riding camels at Uhuru Park, and playing basketball with youth at the Mukuru Affordable Housing Project.

“Speed saw the true face of Nairobi: modern, vibrant, and incredibly welcoming,” the CS stated.

The CS said the visit also took Speed to the Maasai Mara, where he engaged deeply with Kenyan heritage through traditional Maasai customs.

“In the heart of the Maasai Mara, he engaged with our heritage through the traditional Maasai jump and partook in the sacred Maasai ritual of drinking milk mixed with blood, a testament to his respect for our deep-rooted customs,” Miano said.

According to Miano, the experience reflected Speed’s respect for Kenya’s deep-rooted customs, while also exposing millions of viewers to Kenya’s heritage and the annual wildlife migration, which she noted is officially recognised in the World Book of Records.

Immersive experience

Miano further emphasised that Speed’s visit demonstrated Kenya’s unique position as more than just a tourist destination.

“This visit has demonstrated that Kenya is not just a destination on a map; it is an immersive experience of nature, culture, and humanity,” she stated.

She said the YouTuber’s visit leaves behind more than viral clips, serving as a powerful reminder of Kenya’s significance.

“Speed leaves behind more than just viral clips; he leaves a powerful reminder that Kenya is not just a destination, it is the Cradle of Mankind. You don’t visit Kenya, you remember it, you return to it, you wake up in it!” Miano declared.

The Tourism CS concluded by inviting global travellers to experience Kenya, emphasising the country’s safety and readiness to welcome visitors.

“Kenya is open, Kenya is safe, and Kenya is ready to welcome you. Karibuni Kenya, the Origin of Wonder!” she said.