A couple has been arrested in Migori County for allegedly abandoning their one-month-old baby near Chamgiwadu Trading Centre in Rongo. The incident, which occurred on a Sunday, has sparked outrage and concern among residents and child welfare advocates.
The infant was discovered by members of the community just a few metres from a house near the trading centre. Residents quickly responded after hearing the baby’s cries and rushed to the scene, where they found the child lying helpless and alone. The baby was rescued and given immediate care before authorities were alerted.
According to local accounts, the woman, who is believed to be the child’s mother, had separated from her husband several months prior due to marital disagreements. On the day of the incident, she was seen arriving at the location with the baby. She allegedly placed the child close to the house before vanishing without a trace. This act raised suspicions, prompting neighbours to investigate, ultimately leading to the baby’s rescue.
The authorities were informed soon after the incident, leading to a swift response from local security officers. Both the woman and the man, presumed to be the baby’s father, were traced, arrested, and handed over to the nearby Chamgiwadu police post for processing.
The couple is now facing charges related to child abandonment, a serious offence under Kenyan law. Child abandonment not only endangers the life and well-being of an innocent child but also reflects a severe breach of parental responsibility and care.
The rescued baby has been placed under temporary protective custody as the case proceeds. Efforts are underway to ensure the child receives the necessary medical attention, nutrition, and a safe environment. Child welfare officers are also expected to conduct further investigations into the family’s background to determine whether the abandonment was an isolated incident or part of a larger pattern of neglect.
The case has ignited a broader conversation on parental responsibilities, mental health, and social support systems. Many community members have called for increased awareness and access to counselling services, especially for parents going through difficult circumstances such as separation or financial hardship. There is also a growing appeal for government and non-governmental agencies to strengthen support structures for vulnerable families to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the couple awaits their court appearance, the community remains hopeful that justice will be served and that the baby will eventually be placed in a loving and supportive home. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and the shared responsibility of safeguarding children’s rights and welfare.
