A Nairobi man who had been surviving atop a tree along Jogoo Road has been rescued and given a new lease of life, thanks to the intervention of Nairobi County Chief Environment Officer, Geoffrey Mosiria.
The man, who had captured public attention after photos of his makeshift “treehouse” went viral, became popularly known as the “Landlord of the Avoidable House.” His unusual dwelling left pedestrians stunned and sparked intense conversations online about urban poverty and mental health.
In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, September 13, 2025, Mosiria confirmed that he had followed through on his promise to support the man. He explained that the man’s plight had deeply moved him, and public calls for help compelled him to act.
A pathway to dignity and income
To empower him economically, Mosiria purchased a mkokoteni (handcart), which the man can now use to collect recyclables and earn a sustainable living while also contributing to environmental cleanliness.
Additionally, Mosiria pledged to assist in registering a Community-Based Organisation (CBO) with the help of the man’s friends, ensuring a more structured and reliable income source.
“As promised, today I returned to visit our friend, the landlord of the ‘Avoidable House’ along Jogoo Road, to support him in finding a better path in life, just as many of you had encouraged me to do,” Mosiria said.
A safe place to call home
Beyond business support, Mosiria revealed that he had rented a proper house for the man within the Jogoo Road area and cleared three months’ rent upfront, giving him the chance to get back on his feet without immediate financial pressure.
“I will continue walking with him on this new journey until he becomes fully stable and independent,” he assured.
Community response and hope for change
Mosiria also expressed gratitude to Kenyans who had spoken out about the man’s condition, saying their concern pushed him to take action. He promised to continue offering mentorship and follow-up support to ensure long-term stability.
“To everyone who expressed concern about Ras’s situation and reached out to me, thank you. Everything is now on the right track,” Mosiria stated.
This act of compassion has not only transformed one man’s life but has also sparked broader conversations about homelessness, poverty, and the need for structured social safety nets in Nairobi’s growing urban landscape.
