Mosiria Gives Nairobi Birdman 24 Hours to Surrender Wild Birds
Nairobi County Chief Officer for Environment Geoffrey Mosiria issued a strict 24-hour ultimatum to TikToker Rodgers Oloo Magudha, popularly known as the Nairobi Birdman. Specifically, Mosiria ordered him to surrender his wild birds to a national park or seek assistance from the county’s forestry department by Monday. Furthermore, failure to comply will result in direct legal action and enforcement.
Why Authorities Are Acting Now
Two specific concerns drove the county’s ultimatum. Specifically, KMPDU Deputy Secretary General Dr. Dennis Miskellah formally warned that Magudha’s viral habit of sharing food and eating from the same plate as wild birds poses a massive zoonotic disease transmission risk, including bird flu.
Furthermore, county authorities emphasised that keeping undomesticated raptors, owls and storks in a residential home violates standard wildlife and environmental regulations.
How Kenyans Are Reacting
The directive has ignited fierce debate online. Specifically, supporters of the health measures agree with medical experts, comparing close proximity to wild animals with historical viral outbreaks and citing general hygiene concerns.
However, many defenders argue that Magudha possesses a rare talent for wildlife rehabilitation. Furthermore, they point out that he rescues injured street birds, feeds them and allows them to fly freely rather than keeping them caged.
Consequently, many commenters are calling on Nairobi County and KWS to employ him as a ranger or conservationist rather than treat him as a criminal.
What Happens Next
Monday is the deadline. Specifically, Mosiria warned that county enforcement officers will act directly if Magudha fails to comply. Therefore, the Nairobi Birdman faces his most serious legal challenge yet.
