This archive report was first published on 19 September 2019.
Busia Couples Switch Spouses, Sign Joint Parenting Deal ¶
Two couples from Busia County have taken an unusual step to protect the rights of their five children, exchanging partners and signing a joint parenting agreement.
The couples, Lilian Weta and Immaculate Wekesa, made the decision after citing challenges in their marriages.
According to a report by The Standard, the couples signed the agreement on September 18, 2019, in the presence of a mediation team led by Busia County Commissioner Jacob Narengo, Director of Children's Services Esther Wasige, and Assistant Children's Officer Ndogo Luke Papa.
"The government is keen on ensuring that children's rights are protected. These agreements will be publicized based on needs," Narengo said.
The agreement outlines that the mothers will be responsible for providing shelter and food, while the fathers will handle education and medical care. However, the children will have the freedom to meet with both parents, who will be required to report to the Children's Department every first Wednesday of the month.
The couples expressed gratitude to the government for intervening in the matter, which will prevent their children from being affected by their separation.
Weta, 28, and mother of three, and Wekesa, 29, and mother of two, made the decision to exchange partners due to challenges in their marriages.
