This archive report was first published on 18 September 2019.
On September 18, 2019, a unique situation unfolded in Busia County, where two couples, Lilian Weta and Immaculate Wekesa, and their husbands, Christopher Abwire and Kevin Barasa, respectively, signed a joint parental responsibility agreement to protect the rights of their five children.
The couples, who had been experiencing incessant quarrels in their marriages, decided to swap spouses in a bold move. Weta, 28, and a mother of three, exchanged husbands with Wekesa, 29, and a mother of two.
The agreement, signed before a tribunal led by County Commissioner Jacob Narengo, Busia County Director of Children Services Esther Wasige, and Matayos Sub County Children officer Luke Papa, stipulates that the children's food and shelter would be provided by their biological mothers, while education would be provided by the biological fathers.
Both parents were also directed to cover medical expenses and clothing. However, the children have been granted unlimited access to both parents, who will be reporting to the office of Children department on monthly basis.
County Commissioner Narengo warned the couples that they risk being charged in court of law should they breach the agreement. He emphasized that the government is keen on ensuring that children's rights are protected.
