Popular YouTube streamer IShowSpeed brought Kenya to a standstill during his latest African tour, as his stream pulled over 200,000 concurrent viewers while the streets of Nairobi descended into complete chaos.
The 20-year-old content creator’s visit to Kenya’s capital proved so overwhelming that local police struggled to maintain order as thousands of fans flooded the streets trying to catch a glimpse of the internet sensation. At one point, Speed found himself unable to move to his next location as crowds completely packed the surrounding areas.
But the chaos came with record-breaking numbers. Speed’s Kenya stream saw him gain over 230,000 new subscribers in a single broadcast, pushing his YouTube channel past the 48 million subscriber milestone.
The viewership numbers put Kenya at the top of his African tour performance, with the country delivering what many are calling unprecedented engagement for a live stream.
The tour wasn’t without serious concerns, though. Things took a dangerous turn when fans began driving recklessly in an attempt to reach Speed’s convoy. The situation escalated quickly, resulting in a serious crash near the streamer’s location.
Speed was forced to briefly turn off his stream as the incident unfolded, highlighting the darker side of internet fame and the risks that come with massive crowds.
Despite the safety issues, Speed managed to create several viral moments during his visit. He met Bradley Marongo, Africa’s tallest man, who stands at a staggering 8 feet 2 inches. The encounter left Speed visibly shocked, with even his security team looking tiny next to Marongo.
The streamer also visited Kenyatta Market, Kenya’s largest marketplace, where he showcased a more wholesome side. When offered a locally-made Kenyan shirt for 3,000 shillings (about $24), Speed was encouraged to bargain the price down as is customary in market settings. Instead, he did the opposite by handing over 20,000 shillings, which is roughly $150, making the vendor’s day.
Speed’s Kenya tour represents both the incredible reach of modern streaming and the challenges that come with it. While the numbers prove the massive appeal of live content and authentic cultural experiences, the safety incidents raise questions about crowd control and the responsibility that comes with having such influence.
The Kenya leg has already become one of the most talked-about moments in Speed’s ongoing African tour, with clips from the streams racking up millions of views across social media platforms.
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