The first #Google4Kenya event was held on, 15th October 2018 at Mövenpick Hotel & Residences Nairobi where they announced more products and programs aimed at boosting the Kenyan economy. This significant event emceed by the beautiful Caroline Mutoko marked 11 years ago today, when Google Africa opened an office in Nairobi – the first in Africa.

The opening remarks were done by Charles Murito, Country Manager Kenya, using Digital Access Content in promotion of Tourism in Kenya, Jobs and the opportunity to position Kenya as Tourist destination.

Dorothy Ouko, gave a YouTube Content Overview which Introduced us to the YouTube Go App which is a MUST HAVE! Why?The YouTube Go App is simply an app that gives you the power to choose the size of the video you want to watch on YouTube. That Simply means, You get to spare yourself that “data is running low” message. Its a WIN!! Also,with the new YouTube Go you can download videos to your phone and re-watch them later without having to use your data again! Let data know who’s boss.

Also speaking at the event, Jeff Albertson on mentioned the launch Street View of Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nakuru, Nyeri and Malindi – now available on Google Maps and accessible to everyone, around the world. Jeff, was keen to speak on how #BodaBoda (motorbike) has impacted efficiency in real time Navigation. For +1M Kenyans, boda bodas are a convenient and affordable way to move and transport goods Google Maps new motorbike mode now provides directions and turn-by-turn navigation for boda boda riders to allow for more time efficient routes.

PS Joe Okudo – Tourism State Department addressed the audience before introducing the chief guest, CS Najib Balala.

The CS for Tourism Najib Balala speaking at the event said, Tourism is a key contributor to Kenya’s economic growth and stands to reap big from the Digital opportunity which contributes over 10% to Kenya’s economy. He also gave his opinion on the newly launched Street View saying, “We are excited that STREET VIEW (GOOGLE MAPS) is coming to National Parks as this will boost the future of tourism in Kenya.”

What was notable to us however, was the mere fact that Google Kenya has now integrated #MPESA payments into Google Play! Why is that exciting? Because you can now purchase apps and pay DIRECTLY via Mpesa services

It was a fun filled event with Ghetto Classics entertaining the guests at #Google4Kenya, set the tone of the event

AWARDS

#YouTubeSilverButtons

#Google4Kenya awarded the Silver Play Button, an award for YouTube channels that surpass 100k subscribers, to five Kenyan YouTube creators:

• KTN Kenya
• The Real Househelps of Kawangware
• Nyashinski 
• NJUGUSH
• Africha Movies

This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication that these creators have shown in developing their channel to such a professional level. This vibrant creator community inspires us to build features that make watching videos easier and more engaging for viewers. This is all part of our aim of helping Kenyans make the most of the Internet and grow the economy.

The Go Places™ Media Group Bring You an Exclusive Coverage of This Significant Event in the History of Kenya…