Kenyans have rallied behind former police officer Dennis Munyao, popularly known as Afande Denno, after he ventured into a boiled maize business following his dismissal from the National Police Service (NPS).
Denno, who was removed from service after participating in the 2025 Gen Z protests, an act that contravenes police conduct rules, has spent nearly nine months out of formal employment.
Now, in a dramatic shift from law enforcement to street entrepreneurship, Denno has embraced a humble but promising hustle: selling boiled maize, commonly known as mitungo.
In a candid video shared on his TikTok page, Denno opened up about the decision, acknowledging the contrast between his past career and his current venture.
“I want to start selling boiled maize. I know it sounds weird from being a police officer to selling maize but we are chasing money,” he said.
His honesty and resilience quickly struck a chord with Kenyans online of whom have since shown overwhelming support both financially and emotionally.
Among those who stepped in to help is former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko. Denno revealed that after purchasing a cooking pot, he reached out to Sonko for assistance in acquiring a jiko. According to Denno, Sonko responded without hesitation.
“I told Mike Sonko that I had bought a cooking pot and only needed a jiko. He asked for the price and told me not to worry, he would take care of my small problems,” Denno recounted.
Afande Denno acquiring the Jiko gifted by former Nairobi Governor, Mike Sonko April 3./SCREEN GRABSupport also came from ordinary citizens. A fan from Athi River delivered firewood to Denno’s residence in Imara Daima, a gesture the former officer described as timely and deeply appreciated.
“God’s timing is always the best,” he said in gratitude.
Despite the goodwill, Denno’s journey has also sparked speculation and debate online. Some social media users have questioned whether his dismissal was genuine, suggesting he could be operating undercover.
One widely circulated comment simply read, “Undercover,” while another added, “Denno is on his own mission and no one knows it.”
Still, many more Kenyans have chosen to focus on his determination and positive outlook in the face of adversity. Messages of encouragement have flooded his pages, with supporters praising his willingness to start over.
“So much respect, bro. Mungu anaona na atakufungulia njia, Inshallah,” read one comment, expressing hope that God would open new opportunities for him.
Others pointed to his mental strength, noting that many in his position might have struggled emotionally.
“Watu wengi wangekuwa kwa depression, this guy is strong,” another user wrote.
Just two days into the business, Denno reported brisk sales, revealing that he sells at least 250 pieces of maize daily at Sh50 each.
The figures quickly caught the attention of netizens, many of whom started calculating his potential earnings, with some expressing surprise at the viability of the venture.
From enforcing the law to lighting a roadside jiko, Afande Denno’s journey underscores a simple but powerful message: dignity in work and the courage to start again can redefine even the most unexpected paths.
