Andrew, a resident of the United States, currently works at the largest dumpsite in Kenya, Dandora. He actually found himself in the streets after his father and mother-in-law relocated to Nairobi City. At the time, Andrew was only 13 years old but had to forge his way out because of difficult circumstances.

How Andrew ended up in Nairobi

Andrew was born in the state of Minnesota, USA. After 13 years, a young and naive Andrew arrived in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, with his father and mother-in-law. However, Andrew found it difficult to cope with the new family setting after his biological mother separated from his father. Therefore he had to find a way to survive in the new environment, and this time in Nairobi, Kenya.

As soon as his dad and mother-in-law found a new home, Andrew joined street kids in Nairobi. He had to work hard so as to sustain himself, as he didn’t embrace living with a mother-in-law. Nevertheless, things were tougher in the streets.

Andrew’s first experience as a teen in Nairobi was brutal. This is as he didn’t communicate efficiently with his peers. He didn’t know any Swahili words as he was brought up speaking American English. That’s not all; other kids bullied him as he was a new kid in the block who knew no one. Andrew, 13 at the time, persevered through all the challenges as he had no other option.

“I remember I didn’t have a Kenyan phone number or phone, and I didn’t know anyone. The streets were brutal and unforgiving, and kids would bully me,” he told Citizen Digital.

Who introduced him at the Dandora Dumpsite?

After several months of hardships, Andrew met John, alias Johnte, who guided him through the tough life in Nairobi. It was Johnte who was triggered by Andrew’s rap prowess in the streets. The young US resident still had an American accent in his lyrics, thus capturing the attention of John.

They became good friends. Johnte and Andrew then ended up at the Dandora Dumpsite a few years later as they quested for a job opportunity. At first, life at the dumpsite was not easy for the two young friends. This is as they witnessed frequent fights among the senior workers, causing some bad injuries.

Thankfully, they adapted to the brutal lifestyle after working at the Dandora Dumpsite for several years. Andrew feels at home now. He has also learned some Swahili words, which makes it easier to communicate. Additionally, he dreams of finding a better home and owning a music production studio.