Podcasts have officially gone mainstream in Kenya. What was once a niche hobby for a small audience has transformed into one of the country’s fastest-growing forms of entertainment, learning, and connection. And in 2025, the numbers and the stories prove it.
At the heart of the movement are shows that have captured the nation’s ears and hearts. So This Is Love continues to shine as a powerful example of how intimate storytelling resonates with Kenyans.
Right behind it, The97sPodcast and Mic Cheque Podcast are setting the tone on culture, music, and identity. Add The Messy Inbetween and The Mkurugenzi Podcast to the mix, and you’ve got a lineup that reflects just how diverse and layered the Kenyan podcasting space has become.
Spotify data paints a clear picture of the podcast audience. Nairobi reigns supreme, accounting for more than 93% of all streams, solidifying its role as Kenya’s digital and cultural hub. But it’s the demographics that stand out.
Gen Z listeners aged 18 to 24 make up nearly half of Kenya’s podcast audience, with millennials between 25 and 29 closely following behind. The gender split is also strikingly balanced, with women accounting for 50% and men for 49%, highlighting just how broad and inclusive the appeal of podcasting has become.
Unsurprisingly, the most popular genre is Society & Culture, as Kenyans crave authentic conversations about love, friendship, identity, and everyday life.
The scene isn’t just defined by established giants. Fresh voices are breaking through in bigways. That’s What She Said! Podcast, Listen, I Have Something To Say Podcast, and BTW Podcast by Celestine are all surging in popularity. In fact, Celestine’s show alone has seen mind-blowing growth of over 10,000%. This surge proves that bold, new storytelling can quickly gain traction and spark conversations on overlooked topics.
Kenyans aren’t just binge-listening for fun, they’re weaving podcasts into their daily routines. Listening peaks between 8AM and 6PM, a sign that audio content has become a trusted companion on commutes, during work breaks, and even study sessions. Genres like True Crime and Business are gaining traction, showing how listeners are striking a balance between entertainment and information.
While Nairobi dominates, other cities are catching up. Mombasa, Nakuru, Thika, and Kilifi are emerging hotspots for podcast engagement. Midweek is prime time, with Tuesday and Wednesday recording the highest activity.
From breakout shows to household names, podcasts in Kenya are no longer just “background noise.” They’re shaping conversations, reflecting society, and creating communities.
For creators, it’s a golden opportunity to jump in and build. For brands, the message is loud and clear: if you want to connect with Kenya’s young, plugged-in audience, the podcast space is where the action is.
by queen serem
