A video of a white man quietly collecting discarded plastic bottles alongside street children on the busy streets of Nairobi recently captured the attention of thousands of Kenyans, sparking a wave of curiosity, concern, and speculation across social media.
Many who watched the clip wondered who he was and why a foreigner appeared to be searching through waste for recyclable materials. Some feared he had fallen on hard times, while others urged Nairobi County Chief Environment Officer Geoffrey Mosiria to find him and determine whether he needed urgent assistance.
As the online conversation intensified, an unexpected message brought the mystery closer to being solved.
Mosiria revealed that he was contacted directly by the man’s wife after she came across the viral video. Concerned by the assumptions being made about her husband, she wanted Kenyans to hear the real story behind the images that had spread across the internet.
After arranging a meeting, Mosiria introduced the man to the public, allowing him to speak for himself.
The man identified himself as Cory Hansen, a 54-year-old American who proudly calls Kenya home. Contrary to the rumors circulating online, Cory explained that he is neither homeless nor abandoned.
“My name is Cory Hansen. I love it here in Kenya even though I am American. I have a family, and I love my wife and kids. I do mjengo. I am 54 years old but I do good work. I do this because I want to care for my family,” he said.
Cory also shared another side of his life that touched many hearts.
He explained that he has formed close relationships with street children and considers them part of his extended family. Whenever he can, he offers them help and support.
“I also have a street family. I love the street kids, and I help them when I can. Some people have threatened to harm my family, but I want to assure you that I can protect my family,” he added.
While many had assumed his bottle collection was a sign of poverty, his wife revealed a much deeper and more personal explanation.
She disclosed that Cory lives with bipolar disorder, a mental health condition that became more severe after the passing of his mother. Although he faithfully takes prescribed medication, there are times when he experiences episodes that lead him to leave home and spend hours wandering through the city.
His family emphasized that these moments should not be mistaken for homelessness or abandonment.
They also explained that Cory genuinely enjoys collecting recyclable materials because of his passion for environmental conservation. Picking up plastic waste is something he does willingly, not because he lacks a home or means of support.
The family made one heartfelt request to the public.
They appealed to anyone who encounters Cory on the streets not to offer him alcohol or bhang, warning that both substances can interfere with his medication and seriously endanger his health.
Following his meeting with Cory, Mosiria urged Kenyans to replace judgment with compassion and understanding.
He reminded the public that Cory has a loving family that cares deeply for him and encouraged everyone to treat him with dignity and respect whenever they meet him.
“This man is not homeless. He has a loving family that cares deeply for him. When you see him on the streets, please do not judge or discriminate against him. Instead, treat him with dignity, kindness, and respect, knowing that he is living with a mental health condition,” Mosiria said.
The story, which began as a mystery on Nairobi’s streets, has since become a powerful reminder that appearances can be deceiving. Behind every viral video is a human story that may be far more complex than it first seems. Rather than rushing to conclusions, compassion and understanding can make a world of difference—especially for those living with mental health challenges while striving to live meaningful lives.
