Rodgers Oloo, a passionate bird lover from Nakuru County, lives in Nairobi’s Central Business District.
He’s known as Nakuru Street Boy but his love for birds has made him a celebrity in town.
He explains how he fell in love with the first bird and named it Johnson.
“I saw the bird near a local supermarket and decided to have a closer look at it given its frail stature,” he said.
Gripped by compassion and empathy, he took it upon himself to provide food and shelter for little bird; a luxury he (himself) craved for so dearly.
As days turned into weeks, the once frail little bird transformed into a spirited feathered friend.
“We forged a special bond. We communicate in a special way. Johnson knows when I am offering food and follows my cue when I point him to my shoulder,” he added.
Bridging the gap between man and bird seemed like a hard nut to crack for starters. However, with time, the bird got used to an environment full of humans.
“I started feeding it gradually and with time, it grew into a healthy bird,” Rodgers added.
Rodgers has now grown the number of birds to three.
“The one on the top of my head is called Johnson and he is the kingpin, the others ones are called Jeremy and Jenny,” he said proudly.
Rodgers is not your ordinary street boy. He has a fairly commendable education background.
“I have done basic computer courses including one on cybersecurity. I have also done a short course in first aid response. I also have requisite knowledge to work as a morgue attendant,” he added.
He wishes to get a formal job and turn over a new leaf. Will he leave the bird behind? Absolutely not!
Despite some people deeming their bond as witchcraft, Rodgers and Johnson stand resilient, their companionship flourishing with each passing day; a special bond between bird and man continues to grow.
