Nairobi County Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service, Geoffrey Mosiria, is calling on the public to help identify and reconnect the family of William Peter Kinyonga, a founding member of Simba wa Nyika, the legendary band that later evolved into Les Wanyika. Mosiria revealed on Thursday, November 20, 2025, that he rescued the veteran musician after finding him homeless and in a vulnerable state on the streets of Nairobi.
He explained through his official social media accounts that Kinyonga mentioned having roots in Tanzania, formerly Tanganyika. Mosiria appealed to anyone who may know his relatives or acquaintances to come forward and provide information that could help reunite him with his family.
“Yesterday, I rescued from the streets of Nairobi the legendary musician and founder of the Simba wa Nyika band, which later became Les Wanyika. His name is William Peter Kinyonga. He has been suffering on the streets, homeless and vulnerable, and as a government, we cannot sit back and watch a Nairobi resident suffer,” he revealed.
Mosiria added that he ensured the musician was provided with new clothes and shoes before personally escorting him to a home for the elderly where he would receive care and protection.
What Support Has the County Government Offered the Veteran Musician?
Mosiria reiterated that the Nairobi County Government remains committed to safeguarding vulnerable residents. He urged anyone with information about Kinyonga’s family to reach out immediately so the musician can be reconnected with his loved ones.
“Anyone who knows his family, please reach out. He has mentioned that his home is in Tanzania, Tanganyika. We shall continue to support the less fortunate in our society – na lazima tufanye hii kazi,” Mosiria added.
The rescue followed distressing reports from Nairobi residents who had spotted Kinyonga in dire condition. Responding swiftly, Mosiria facilitated the musician’s rescue, providing clothing, shoes, and essential items before ensuring he was taken to a facility where he would receive safe housing, medical assistance, and constant care.
How Did the Rescue Operation Unfold?
On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, Mosiria shared on his social media accounts that he acted immediately after receiving alerts about Kinyonga’s condition. He documented the rescue in a 20-minute video posted on X, capturing his engagement with the elderly artist and appealing for help from the public.
“Today, I rescued from the streets of Nairobi the legendary musician and founder of the Simba wa Nyika band, which later became Les Wanyika. He has been suffering on the streets, homeless and vulnerable, and as a government, we cannot sit back and watch a Nairobi resident suffer. I responded immediately to the complaint, ensured he received new clothes and shoes, and personally took him to a home for the elderly where he can be safe and cared for,” Mosiria wrote in the post.
Kinyonga’s rescue has sparked widespread concern and reflection on the welfare of veteran musicians. As efforts to trace his family continue, Kenyans have been encouraged to share any information that may help restore dignity and support to the iconic artist.
By Risper Akinyi