IShowSpeed Hits 48M Subs in Nairobi: The Heartbreaking Reason He Paid 20k for a Shirt

Yes, IShowSpeed (Darren Watkins Jr.) is currently in Kenya as of January 12, 2026.

He arrived in Nairobi on Sunday, January 11, 2026, as part of his high-profile “Speed Does Africa” tour, a 28-day journey across 20 African nations. His visit has already caused a massive stir in the capital, breaking personal records and drawing the attention of the country’s top leadership.

Within just 24 hours of landing in Kenya, IShowSpeed reached a massive milestone of 48 million YouTube subscribers. He gained over 360,000 new followers during his first day in Nairobi alone, leading him to declare that “Kenya is number one right now.”

When did IShowSpeed arrive in Kenya?

IShowSpeed arrived in Nairobi, Kenya on January 11, 2026.

Where is IShowSpeed in Nairobi right now?

IShowSpeed is currently streaming live from the Maasai Mara in Kenya as part of his “Speed Does Africa” tour. 

In a rare move for a digital creator, President William Ruto officially welcomed Speed to the country. The President shared a warm message, stating:

“Jambo, IShowSpeed, welcome to Kenya… Kenya is not just another country; Kenya is a pulse, a feeling. Kenya is home.”

Speed’s first day was packed with high-energy activities across the city:

  • Kenyatta Market: He stunned a local vendor by paying KSh 20,000 for a shirt priced at KSh 3,000.
  • Wildlife Encounters: He visited Nairobi National Park, where he was filmed feeding lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
  • Sports & Culture: He met Olympic javelin champion Julius Yego at Upper Hill School and participated in a Safari Rally experience in the CBD.
  • Matatu Culture: He was seen enjoying Nairobi’s famous “Matatu” (vibrant public transport) culture, which thrilled local fans.

Speed was joined by popular Ugandan content creator Tenge Tenge, who traveled to Nairobi specifically to collaborate. There is also heavy speculation about a potential sprint challenge with Kenya’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala.

Where is IShowSpeed going next?

After Kenya, he is expected to visit Senegal and Nigeria as he nears the end of his 28-day continental tour, which concludes on January 26, 2026.

How to watch IShowSpeed live?

You can catch his live “IRL” (In Real Life) streams on his official YouTube channel (IShowSpeed) or follow real-time updates on his Twitch and X (Twitter) accounts.

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