Online Reporter
Walter Nyamukondiwa in CHEGUTU
The Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) hosted Father’s Day commemorations for its members and stakeholders in Chegutu on Sunday amid calls for men to prioritise wellness, exemplary leadership and avoid bottling up issues.
Commander AFZ Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede was the guest of honour at the event held at Jason Ziyaphapha Moyo Airbase in Chegutu.
Air Marshal Nzvede said AFZ had organised the second edition of the celebrations to honour men in the force and fatherhood.
He hailed women under the guidance of the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, for organising the day.
Air Marshal Nzvede said men were rarely celebrated as society expects them to provide leadership without expecting anything
He bemoaned the abrogation of responsibilities by some men, resulting in broken families.
“Some of the vices which have seen men straying from their responsibilities, include excessive consumption of alcohol, drug and substance abuse and gambling,” he said.
“We have seen over the years men destroying their careers because of these vices. People must celebrate and indulge in alcohol responsibly.”
He also called for an end to gender-based violence, saying some social vices were responsible for the increase in violence in the home.
The population survey had shown that one in every three women suffered different forms of violence.
He urged men to shun the culture of “suffering in silence” to conform to the social construct of men as strong.
“This is because seeking mental health assistance or support is perceived as a sign of weakness,” he cautioned.
“My message to all fathers here is that we need a mind shift from the traditions that are not beneficial to our families and us.”
Men, he said, should normalise sharing problems and embrace a health-seeking behaviour.
The event was also attended by Wings of Empowerment Association chairperson Amai Sibonile Nzvede.
Wing Commander Msongelwa Ndlovu welcomed the move by AFZ to host the celebrations, saying it strengthened solidarity among male members of the force.
Group Captain Doubt Ncube said strengthening social support for men was one way of fighting drug and substance abuse, as often people indulge to escape the challenges they will be facing.
The fathers were treated to performances by Dendera music maestro Sulumani Chimbetu and his Orchestra Dendera Kings outfit.
Performances were also made by the Air Force of Zimbabwe Band before everyone was treated to a sumptuous lunch, drinks and cake.
