Maverick Aoko, Bien Baraza, Akoko Val, Amerix bag top influencer awards for 2025

Scophine Atieno alias Maverick Aoko, Akoko Val and musician Bien Baraza who scooped top influencer awards for 2025. Photos: Courtesy

Kenyan political commentator and social media firebrand Scophine Aoko Atieno, popularly known as Maverick Aoko, has been named the X (formerly Twitter) Influencer of the Year at the 2025 Pulse Influencer Awards.

The outspoken writer and commentator has built a powerful online presence through her fearless takes on social and political issues, often sparking intense debates and admiration in equal measure.

Aoko's unapologetic voice on X has earned her a massive following, with many lauding her for championing unity and calling out tribalism.

A known ally of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Aoko has been in and out of legal controversies, including arrests over alleged cyber harassment and defamation.

In August 2024, she was questioned by the DCI before being released on bail, and later that year, she went missing for two weeks, only to resurface near the Kenya-Tanzania border after public outcry.

Despite the challenges, Aoko remains undeterred. In August this year, she announced her political ambitions, declaring her intention to vie for the Nairobi Woman Representative seat in the 2027 General Elections.

The awards, which celebrate digital creativity and influence, also recognised several other Kenyan stars who have made significant waves online.

Murugi Munyi was named Instagram Influencer of the Year, while Mjaka Fine took home the TikTok Influencer of the Year title. Jaymoh Decin bagged Comedy Influencer of the Year, and the talented Mathare Kids group was honoured as Dance Influencers of the Year.

Other winners included Njeri wa Migwi (Positive Impact), Judy Nyawira (YouTube), Miss Muthoni Njoroge (LinkedIn), Bien Baraza (Music), Akoko Val (Food), Austine Odhiambo (Sports), Africana Rapudo (Fashion), and Kalondu Musyimi (Media and Blogging).

Also recognised were socialite and influencer Amber Ray, Friends of Karura, Amerix, Shorn Arwa, DJ Shiti, Jacky Matubia, Mokaya, Dem wa Facebook, Roy Kanyi, Kapedo Photography, and 3Men Army, among others.