A video showing a white man gathering plastic bottles alongside street children in Nairobi sparked widespread speculation online. The man has since been identified as Cory Hansen, a 54-year-old American with a family and a mental health condition.
Who is Cory Hansen?
Following the viral footage, Nairobi county official Geoffrey Mosiria was contacted by Hansen's wife, who sought to clarify his situation. Mosiria visited Hansen and shared insights about his life, addressing public concerns.
Hansen explained that he is not homeless or abandoned. He loves Kenya and supports his wife and children through construction work. He also cares for street children and collects recyclables out of environmental concern.
Mental Health and Public Appeal
Hansen's family revealed he has bipolar disorder, a condition that worsened after his mother's death. While on prescribed medication, he sometimes wanders the streets during episodes, which led to misunderstandings about his status.
His family has asked the public not to offer him alcohol or bhang, as these can interfere with his medication and endanger his health. Mosiria called on Kenyans to treat Hansen with dignity and kindness, recognizing his mental health challenges rather than judging him.
