Prophet Victor Kanyari, the leader of the Salvation Healing Ministry, has issued a surprising warning to his congregation. He has urged them to stop craving the life of the super-rich.
The controversial preacher claims that the reality of high-end living is far less glamorous than it appears.
Kanyari recently moved into a luxury mansion in Runda, one of Nairobi’s most exclusive residential areas. The property is reportedly valued at KSh 90 million. It boasts modern features, including a swimming pool.
Despite the prestige, the pastor told his followers that he grew bored within just forty-eight hours.
The Boredom of Luxury
For many Kenyans, a home in Runda represents the pinnacle of success. For Kanyari, it was a source of immediate isolation. He described the transition from the bustling energy of Nairobi’s Eastlands to the quiet, gated community as a shock to his system.
“I have bought a very decent house with all amenities like swimming pool, very smart. I have stayed there for two days and I got bored,” Kanyari told his church members.
He explained that the silence of the affluent suburb was difficult to endure. He quickly decided that the luxury was not worth the lack of human connection.
“Do not desire the life of wealth; it is a lonely life,” Kanyari warned. “It is better to have that money but eat with the people of Dandora and Githurai. You will be comfortable and your soul will be at peace.”
Missing the Street Life
The pastor highlighted a specific lack of local culture in the high-end estate. He complained that Runda lacks the simple, vibrant pleasures found in Nairobi’s more crowded estates.
He specifically noted the absence of popular street foods like “mutura” (traditional blood sausage) and “mshikaki” (skewered meat).
In Runda, Kanyari found no social atmosphere. He also missed the recognition he receives in busier neighbourhoods. He noted that in the estates, people often address him with respectful titles such as “Mheshimiwa” or “Munene.”
“I live in Runda, my friend, but there is no mutura there,” he said. “Nobody calls you ‘Mheshimiwa’ there, and the way I like to be called with such titles.”
A Quick Return to Kayole
The Prophet’s luxury home has recently been a topic of discussion on social media. He encouraged those curious about the property to view it on his daughter Sky’s online platforms. However, despite the “very smart” aesthetics and the swimming pool, the lure of his old life was stronger.
When his children left the house for a walk, Kanyari seized the moment to depart. He instructed his driver to take him back to the familiar streets of Kayole immediately.
“I told the driver, ‘I am going back to Kayole. It is good here,’” he recounted to his congregation.
