What began as a casual visit by a global internet star has now sparked fresh discussion about how Kenya is being seen around the world. Popular Kenyan entrepreneur and creative Eddie Butita has shared new details about American streamer IShowSpeed’s recent stay in the country, revealing that the government had offered him money during the visit.
According to Butita, the offer was meant to support the exposure Kenya was getting from Speed’s live streams, which were watched by millions of people across the world. The government reportedly saw the visit as a chance to boost tourism and show a positive image of the country to a global audience that mostly follows online content creators.
However, Butita said the proposal did not go as planned. IShowSpeed is said to have politely declined the financial incentive. He reportedly told officials that he had not come to Kenya to be paid or to act as a brand ambassador.
Instead, he wanted to experience the country freely and share Africa’s culture, energy, and everyday life with his followers in an honest way.
During his stay, Speed moved around Nairobi, interacted with locals, and took part in different activities that reflected the city’s lifestyle. His live streams captured moments that felt natural and unplanned, which many viewers found exciting and relatable. The content quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing attention not just to Nairobi but to Kenya as a whole.
Many people have praised Speed’s decision, saying it showed genuine interest rather than a business arrangement. Some Kenyans online noted that the visit felt authentic, which may have made the impact even stronger than a paid campaign.
Others believe it highlights the power of organic content in promoting tourism in the modern digital age.
Butita’s revelation has since fueled conversations about how the country can work with global creators in the future. While paid promotions still matter, Speed’s visit has shown that real curiosity and cultural appreciation can sometimes deliver even greater results.
The visit is widely seen as a positive moment for Kenya, proving that its culture, people, and atmosphere can speak for themselves without needing a price tag.
