Gok project?Justina Wamae questions govt’s role in IShowSpeed visit
By Ascah Mwango, January 19, 2026Former Roots Party deputy leader Justina Wamae has questioned the role of the Kenyan government in the visit of American streamer IShowSpeed.
In a statement posted on her X account on Monday, January 19, 2026, she challenged officials to clarify the purpose and economic value of the high-profile trip.
“Now that he’s out of earshot, they are saying IShowSpeed was a GoK project. Kama MKenya, uchumi wako umeimarika kivipi na kukuja kwake nchini? Ama hainihusu?:” Wamae stated.
IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., arrived in Nairobi on January 11 as part of his 28-day Speed Does Africa tour, visiting more than 20 African countries.
His week in Kenya drew national and international attention. He visited Upper Hill High School, interacted with students, and embraced local culture, attracting large crowds of young fans.
Ruto’s welcome video
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.
His itinerary included Nairobi National Park, local markets, helicopter rides over the city, and interactions with Kenyan sports personalities. He also explored local food and matatu culture, sharing these experiences live with his audience.