This archive report was first published on 18 December 2019.
Google's annual 'Year in Search' report provides a glimpse into the most searched topics in 2019. Internationally, TikTok stars dominated the report, while in Kenya, news item searches were more prominent.
According to Google's report, the top tech how-to searches in Kenya included 'how to download videos from YouTube,' which was the most searched topic. Other trending tech how-to searches included 'create a website,' 'take care of a phone,' and 'hack a wi-fi password.'
YouTube creators made significant strides in 2019, with Google honouring several local creators who achieved milestones on the platform. However, Kenya's limited wi-fi coverage and preference for downloading videos over streaming live were notable trends.
Bob Collymore, the late Safaricom CEO, was the top 'trending personalities in Kenya' search, with Kenyans seeking insights into his life, illness, and untimely demise. Eliud Kipchoge, who broke the sub-two-hour marathon distance, was also a top search.
Other trending personalities included John Demathew, Joyce Laboso, Ken Okoth, Tob Cohen, Mike Sonko, Jonathan Moi, Ivy Wangechi, and Esther Arunga.
Kenya's top how-to general searches included 'how to file returns using a P9 form,' 'how to start a business,' and 'how to make money.' Worldwide, most how-to searches in the general category were related to voting.