On December 29, 2020, Bernard Musyoki, a 35-year-old Kenyan man, and Deborah Jan Spicer, a 70-year-old Mzungu woman, exchanged vows after meeting on Facebook in 2017 and falling in love. Their journey began with online conversations, leading to a decision for Deborah to travel to the United States to meet Bernard, her prince charming. Despite facing initial visa rejections in 2018 and 2020, Bernard remained determined.
Upon Deborah’s arrival in Kenya, they visited Kitui, Bernard’s hometown, where he resides. Despite initial apprehensions from Bernard’s parents about the age gap, they eventually accepted Deborah into the family. However, some critics speculated that Bernard’s marriage to an older woman was solely for acquiring a green card to the United States.
Despite societal judgments, Bernard and Deborah remained committed to each other, even practicing abstinence until their marriage. They exchanged vows at Sheria House on February 2, 2021, with witnesses present. Bernard’s wedding ring, costing less than 100 Kenyan Shillings, held sentimental value, as Deborah expressed that what truly mattered was their love and commitment to each other.
In negotiating the dowry with Deborah’s late parents, they agreed upon a symbolic payment of only 100 Kenyan Shillings, which Bernard was instructed to offer as a church donation. Despite the unconventional dowry, Bernard and Deborah’s bond remains strong, demonstrating that love knows no age or societal norms.
