A homeless man who has been sheltering beneath a tunnel in Pangani on Thika Road on Tuesday night rejected a well-wisher's cash gift and offer to buy him a house.
In a video which has since gone viral, activist Derrick Mbugua paid a visit to the homeless man who introduced himself as Mutoko. The activist found Mutoko sleeping in his makeshift garbage bag shelter.
Before extending his offer, Mbugua, accompanied by his friends, initially tried to strike up a friendly conversation with the homeless man.
However, Mutoko became hesitant to engage as the activist and his friends illuminated the scene with their phones, microphones, and powered lights since it was at night.
To ease the tension, Mbugua employed the same approach, trying to establish a friendly atmosphere by engaging Mutoko in a casual conversation.
At one point, Mbugua requested Mutoko to have the conversation somewhere else since the tunnel is a busy stretch where vehicles cruise at high speed. The activist also pointed out that the area is not safe for pedestrians at night. However, Mutoko did not accept the request.
The activist offered to provide cash, dangling several notes to Mutuko to soften his stance. Mbugua further broached the idea of buying a house for the homeless man to allow him to live comfortably going forward.
"We don't like the fact that you sleep here along the tunnel where vehicles pass at such high speeds. These are my friends so don't be shy. I want you to tell me how I can help you. I know it's not safe, so do you mind if we step aside and talk? Carry your bag and let's move," Mbugua stated.
"You don't want an offer for a house where you can stay? This is a risky place to stay but you don't want to leave this place."
Puzzled by the turn of events, the homeless man would every few seconds peep from his hoodie and shake his head, a gesture denoting his disapproval of what was being proposed to him.
"How much is this money? It's all yours but you have to accept our offer. Let me assist to carry your bag and let's go, "Mbugua indicated.
After failing to prevail upon the homeless man, Mbugua resigned to the fact that Mutoko had declined his offers.
After the video was posted online, Kenyans lauded Mbugua for his efforts but opined that certain people are content with their surroundings and are not enthusiastic about change.
"You can oppose me but do I say, some people cannot live with other people."
"Thanks for the good work Derick hope someone who knows him can come to his rescue," read some of the comments online.
