Kanyenda started his career in 1998 in Malawi's First Division for FC Welfare in Dwangwa. He was spotted by Jomo Sono the owner of Jomo Cosmos FC during the Cosafa under 17 in 1999. He has been with Jomo Cosmos under 17 alongside Peter Mponda, in two tours in Italy where he played several games and become second top goalscorer in both occasions. He then turned professional and played in the Premier League of Malawi from 1999–2001 for FC Dwasco (Nkhota-Kota), before moving to South Africa to play in its Premier League, with Jomo Cosmos in Johannesburg between 2001 and 2003.