The record-breaking Kenyan tour of American streamer IShowSpeed has sparked a row within the local entertainment industry. Director Trevor, the brand manager for Bradley Marongo, popularly known as Gen Z Goliath, has publicly criticised Citizen TV.
The frustration follows the broadcaster’s 9 pm news bulletin on Sunday. The report covered the 20-year-old creator’s first day in Nairobi but did not mention his meeting with Marongo.
Trevor took to Instagram to express his disappointment, noting that his client was a key part of the day’s viral moments.
The Omission
Citizen TV’s coverage highlighted several of the streamer’s activities. These included throwing a javelin with Olympic medalist Julius Yego at Upper Hill School and playing rugby with students.
The bulletin also showed him making ugali and visiting the Nairobi National Park.
However, the report did not feature Bradley Marongo. The "Gen Z Goliath" was seen with the streamer at a basketball court during the tour. This encounter was one of many cultural interactions that went viral online.
Trevor’s Frustration
Director Trevor highlighted that the media failed to recognise Marongo as part of the official tour highlights.
Trevor used social media to voice his irritation that such a prominent local figure was left out of the national broadcast summary.
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“It’s okay, Citizen TV. So, Gen Z Goliath was not a major part of Ishowspeed’s Kenyan tour stream? It’s okay, no problem. One day, you’ll ask for an exclusive. Ni sawa,” Trevor complained.
A Milestone for Kenya
IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., arrived in Kenya as part of his "Speed Does Africa" tour. His visit to Nairobi became the most successful stop of his 20-country journey.
During a single live stream in the capital, his YouTube channel hit a massive milestone. He surpassed 48 million subscribers. The Kenyan audience alone helped him gain 360,000 new followers in one session.
The tour was notable for high-level recognition. President William Ruto issued a formal video to welcome the streamer, calling Kenya a "home" for visitors.
Viral Cultural Moments
Beyond the digital records, the tour featured several light-hearted moments. At Kenyatta Market, IShowSpeed famously paid KSh 20,000 for a shirt originally priced at KSh 3,000. He also ate nyama choma and received artwork from local fans.
The streamer’s presence caused significant disruption. Security forces struggled to manage massive crowds that brought parts of Nairobi to a standstill.
Despite the logistical challenges, the tour has been hailed as a major boost for the country's "orange economy" and digital innovation sector.
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