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From Kenya to Nigeria: IShowSpeed still greets fans with ‘habari yako’ on livestream
22nd January, 2026 07:35 AM
American streamer IShowSpeed has taken a bit of Kenya with him as he travels across Africa on his ongoing Speed Does Africa tour.
Even after moving on to countries like Nigeria, fans have noticed that he still uses the popular Swahili greeting habari yako on his livestreams, a phrase he first embraced during his visit to Kenya.
IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., launched his Africa tour on December 29, 2025. The ambitious trip will see him visit 20 countries in 28 days, livestreaming his experiences to a global audience of millions.
IShowSpeed in Kenya
His visit to Kenya on January 11, 2026, was one of the most talked-about stops. Kenyans welcomed him warmly on arrival in Nairobi, where crowds gathered along the streets to see him, and he was greeted by government officials in a public welcome that highlighted Kenya’s culture and hospitality.
During his stay, IShowSpeed livestreamed everyday Kenyan life, from riding in public matatus to trying local food and meeting people in popular city spots. He also took part in activities like training with Olympic javelin champion Julius Yego and playing rugby with local athletes, giving his viewers a real taste of Kenyan culture.
President William Ruto personally welcomed IShowSpeed, highlighting Kenya’s hospitality and tourism potential. The president invited him to experience the country’s sights and culture.
“Jambo IShowSpeed, welcome to Kenya, karibu Kenya. Kenya is not just another country; Kenya is a pulse, a feeling. Kenya is home. This is magical Kenya, the origin of wonders,” Ruto stated in a special video to welcome the streamer.
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife supported the visit. Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano said the tour provides a unique platform to showcase Kenya globally and reshape perceptions beyond traditional safari tourism.
Tourism officials described the visit as digital tourism, arguing that the streamer’s online reach could boost interest in Kenya as a travel destination. The Kenya Tourism Board invited the public to suggest places for him to visit, highlighting the country’s culture and attractions.
“Magical Kenya shines as IShowSpeed tours Africa, turning our story into realtime experience. He is reshaping Kenya’s image from safari hub to a melting pot of cultures, vibrant cities, great cuisine, amazing people and adventure. Indeed, we are the Origin of Wonder,” she wrote on X.
Adding;
“Today we are hosting iShowSpeed, one of the greatest influencers on YouTube and in social media. We are very grateful to see that Kenyans have come out in their numbers, but this opportunity gives Africa a platform to showcase stories that are never told: the beauty of Africa, the people, the culture and our hospitality.”
IShowSpeed’s livestreams from Kenya gained millions of views. On his first full day, he reportedly gained 360,000 new YouTube subscribers, with his channel surpassing 48 million subscribers worldwide during the Kenya leg of the tour.
