The heartwarming images of comedian Mulamwah and Carol Sonnie enjoying quality time with their daughter Keilah weren’t just spontaneous moments—they were the result of a conscious, deliberate approach to co-parenting. In a society where separated parents often fall into conflict, Mulamwah and Carol are intentionally writing a new playbook, one that prioritizes partnership, respect, and the child’s emotional security over personal differences or societal expectations.
This blog unpacks the practical principles and unwritten rules that make their co-parenting dynamic work—a guide for any parents navigating similar journeys.
1. Rule #1: The Child is the CEO
In Practice:
Every decision—from weekend plans to public appearances—starts with the question: “What is best for Keilah?”
Example: Choosing a child-friendly restaurant over a trendy adult spot.
Example: Scheduling outings during her most energetic hours.
Why It Works:
Removes ego and personal grievances from the equation.
Creates a shared mission that unites rather than divides.
2. Rule #2: Public Unity, Private Processing
In Practice:
In public: Smiles, cooperation, positive body language.
In private: Any disagreements or past issues are handled away from the child and away from social media.
What we see: United front.
What we don’t see: The private conversations, boundaries, and possibly mediated discussions.
Why It Works:
Protects the child from adult conflicts.
Maintains public dignity for both parents.
Prevents social media from becoming a battleground.
3. Rule #3: Respect is Non-Negotiable
In Practice:
No side-eyes, sarcastic comments, or passive-aggressive social media posts.
Speaking about each other in neutral or positive terms, especially in front of Keilah.
Acknowledging each other’s roles as parents—e.g., “Your mom/dad is good at this.”
Why It Works:
Models healthy relationship dynamics for the child.
Prevents the build-up of resentment and public drama.
Makes cooperation sustainable long-term.
4. Rule #4: Create Shared Rituals & Traditions
In Practice:
Regular family outings (like the one that went viral).
Celebrating birthdays, holidays, and milestones together.
Possibly establishing new traditions unique to their co-parenting family (e.g., “Saturday morning pancakes with both parents”).
Why It Works:
Gives the child a sense of stability and continuity.
Strengthens the co-parenting bond through positive shared experiences.
Shows the child that family is defined by love, not just structure.
5. Rule #5: Flexible Roles, Not Rigid Labels
In Practice:
They avoid being boxed into traditional “baby mama/baby daddy” stereotypes by:
Sharing responsibilities fluidly (either can be the planner, the comforter, the disciplinarian).
Supporting each other’s parenting styles without public criticism.
Adapting schedules based on each other’s work commitments (Mulamwah’s comedy tours, Carol’s career).
Why It Works:
Prevents power struggles.
Allows both parents to parent authentically.
Teaches the child adaptability and teamwork.
6. Rule #6: Guard Privacy, Share Purposefully
In Practice:
They don’t overshare Keilah’s private moments or emotional challenges online.
What they share is carefully curated to show unity and joy, not vulnerability or conflict.
They likely have an unspoken (or spoken) agreement on what is shareable.
Why It Works:
Protects the child’s right to a private childhood.
Maintains mystery and respect—avoiding the “reality show” effect.
Keeps the focus on parenting, not performing.
7. Rule #7: Build a Supportive “Village”
In Practice:
Their friends and family likely respect their co-parenting choices and avoid taking sides.
They may have a trusted mediator or counselor on standby for tough conversations.
They don’t involve Keilah in adult conflicts or use her as a messenger.
Why It Works:
Reduces external pressure and drama.
Provides a safety net during challenging times.
Ensures the child is surrounded by consistent, positive influences.
8. The Impact: Why This Playbook Matters for Kenya
Shifts Cultural Narratives:
Challenges the stigma and drama often associated with “baby mama” relationships.
Shows that cooperation is possible even after romance ends.
Offers a positive model for the many Kenyan families in similar situations.
Influences Public Discourse:
Media and fans are starting to celebrate harmony over conflict.
Encourages other separated parents to choose peace.
9. How to Adopt This Playbook in Your Own Co-Parenting Journey
Start Small:
Commit to one rule that feels achievable (e.g., “No negative talk about the other parent in front of the child”).
Have a calm, business-like conversation to align on basic principles.
Use technology: Shared calendars, co-parenting apps for logistics.
Seek Help If Needed:
Co-parenting counseling is available and effective.
Legal mediation can help set clear, respectful boundaries.
Practice Patience:
This playbook is a marathon, not a sprint.
Mistakes will happen; repair and recommit.
Conclusion: Co-Parenting as a Legacy
Mulamwah and Carol Sonnie are doing more than raising a happy daughter—they are building a legacy of respect, maturity, and love that will shape Keilah’s view of relationships, conflict, and family for life. Their playbook isn’t about perfection; it’s about intention.
In a world quick to amplify conflict, their choice to write a different story is a quiet but powerful act of rebellion. And as their viral moments show, it’s a rebellion that smiles, laughs, and puts the child first.
Your Move:
Which of these co-parenting rules do you think is the most challenging? Which one could make the biggest difference in separated families?
