Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Senior Lifestyle Writer
FATHER’S Day is once again upon us, an occasion that highlights the positive impact real fathers and father figures have on their children’s lives.
This year, June 15 has been designated as Father’s Day, a time to recognise these important figures for their contributions to society.
This opportunity to celebrate the vital roles fathers play in our lives is crucial for making the world a better place.
They deserve pats on the backs as they provide guidance, support and love, moulding children into confident and compassionate individuals.
Inculcating these values among children doesn’t come cheap, but it is enhanced by these important figures.
While this day may not receive the same level of attention as Mother’s Day, the vital role of fathers cannot be overlooked.
Many of these individuals go above and beyond to provide for their families, yet their sacrifices and hard work often go unacknowledged.
On this special occasion, some fathers will be treated to gifts and gestures of appreciation.
The gestures create lasting memories when we take the time to express gratitude for the love, support and guidance that fathers offer to their children and families.
Father’s Day also serves as a reminder of the essential roles they play as mentors and caregivers in shaping both individuals and society.
For those fathers who neglect their responsibilities, Father’s Day will pass like any other, as their failures and lack of commitment will not be celebrated.
However, this should serve as a perfect opportunity for uninvolved dads to recognise that fatherhood is not merely about procreation; it entails significant responsibilities.
When these responsibilities are fulfilled, Father’s Day becomes a truly memorable occasion.
There is a growing trend of children honouring their fathers and father figures on this special day. After all, Father’s Day is about celebrating our parents, and it deserves our recognition and respect.
Locally, a series of festivities have been organised to observe Father’s Day.
Influencers who spoke to Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub have called for the day to receive similar attention as Mother’s Day.
Most influencers yearn for this day to be used as an occasion to reflect on the lessons learnt and the memories shared, as well as to express gratitude for their unwavering presence.
It has been noted that the bond between fathers and their children should be as strong as that which they share with their mothers.
Popular musician and preacher Alexio Kawara expressed his appreciation for Father’s Day, believing it carries special memories in children’s lives.
“As far as I know, Father’s Day is meant to celebrate fatherhood. Fathers should be celebrated for the roles they play at family and societal levels, as they shape their children’s behaviour and influence. We can’t let this day go unnoticed because a father is considered the head of the family,” stressed Kawara.
He admitted that Father’s Day does not receive the same attention as Mother’s Day, stating, “I think the role of a father is often seen as less compared to that of mothers because most of us (fathers) are not hands-on.
“Many fathers today are more behind-the-scenes parents, unlike mothers. It’s an area where we need to work on to make our presence felt; merely providing for our children is not enough; our presence is also needed.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by arts promoter, strategist and events planner Benjamin Nyandoro, who has been promoting his “Boyz Can Cook” movement.
Through this initiative, he advocates for boys to take culinary chores at home seriously.
This Sunday, Nyandoro and his crew will cater for fathers at Mother Care Business Centre in Glen Lorne, Harare.
Reflecting on the significance of Father’s Day, he noted it should receive the same attention as Mother’s Day.
“Mother’s and Father’s days are celebrated calendar events every year, and while Mother’s Day is more prominent, these historical imbalances are being corrected, which is fair.
“We are celebrating Father’s Day with the theme ‘Bhodo Ramudhara’, where we will serve attendees various dishes. It’s a special day for those who want to spoil their loved ones.”
Nyandoro added: “We will play Jah Prayzah’s song titled ‘Hubaba’, which highlights the challenges fathers face in providing for their children.
“We are dedicating that song because it captures what fathers go through, whether at the marketplace or at work. As Boyz Can Cook, we invite fathers, families and colleagues to come together and enjoy our delicacies under one roof.”
Real estate owner and businessman John Makombe said, “Life is precious, and you only get one go around, so go chase your dreams so you can never regret not taking a chance. I am happy to be a father to Jason and Alisha. I am their Superman.”
Makombe advises dads to cherish the moments with their children.
“The best advice I would give to another dad is to instill the importance of hard work and sharing into your children. ”
Popular comedian, content creator and entrepreneur Victor “Doc Vikela” Mpofu said that he was celebrating Father’s Day with a heavy heart.
He stated that most fathers’ roles are overlooked despite their efforts to bring smiles to their families.
“I think Father’s Day is very important, and from a biblical perspective, having a father is one of the most significant things because the Bible states that the father is the giver of life.
“We give life, but the celebration is not commensurate with its importance. Sometimes fathers are demonised, but the truth is that the father plays a perfect role. In modern society, and in biblical terms, the father is the one who gives life, yet fathers have been demonised,” he remarked.
Doc Vikela firmly believes it’s never too late to change our mindset and honor fathers appropriately. “We need more awareness of the importance of a father.
“A father is a father, and a mother is a mother. Children must respect their mothers as they do their fathers, as the Bible dictates,” he emphasised.
Father of one, Forgive Marimbita cited that, “There are two things that happen when you have a child. One is you don’t really realise the depth of love that you could feel for someone you’ve just met.
“You also realise your own indifference to other people’s kids before you had kids. So when people used to show me photos of their kid, I would be like, ‘Yeah, dude, it’s a kid. I get it. Well done. Loads of people have got them,” he jokingly said.
Brand strategist, public relations expert and entrepreneur, Takemore Mazuruse, shared his thoughts on this special day.
“As I celebrate Father’s Day this year, I reflect on the immense joy and inspiration that fatherhood has brought into my life, especially with my young daughter, Aliana, who is now two years old. Our bond is a cherished treasure; her affectionate gaze and the way she dotes on me fill my heart with indescribable happiness.
“Fatherhood has taught me the importance of being a responsible caregiver, embracing the demands that come with nurturing and guiding a little one. It’s a journey that challenges me to be an all-rounder, balancing love, care and the responsibilities that ensure her well-being. Even at my lowest, when everything seems bleak, the fact that I have a family to look after keeps me going,” he shared.
Added Mazuruse: “Fatherhood is not just about the kids; it’s also about supporting my wife, Nothando Lannet, who equally needs my affection and support. I am grateful that she makes this journey so much easier and more fulfilling. Sharing life with her is a joy, and together we strive to create a loving environment for our family.
“As I celebrate today, I also honour my own father and the countless fathers in Zimbabwe and around the world, who make sacrifices to keep their families safe and happy, often in the face of significant challenges. Fatherhood speaks to how a man finds true happiness when his family is well cared for, and all his pursuits align with their needs and dreams.
“Father’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role fathers play in shaping the future, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to my family’s happiness and wellbeing. Here is to all fathers who strive to create a loving and secure environment for their families!”
Further research has shown that nothing beats appreciation and gratitude on this special day. In many families, Father’s Day creates an opportunity for children and other family members to express their love and thankfulness for their fathers or father figures.
This day is meant to acknowledge their roles as nurturers, protectors and providers. It also serves as an occasion to honor paternal bonds and strengthen the special relationship between fathers and their children.
Additionally, the day encourages families to express love and appreciation, thereby strengthening relationships.
It is also critical to recognise the variety of father figures, including stepfathers, grandfathers and mentors, celebrating diverse family dynamics.
This recognition will encourage reflection, providing individuals with the opportunity to share their relationships with their fathers and the values instilled in them.
Overall, Father’s Day is a meaningful occasion that fosters appreciation for fatherhood and promotes the importance of paternal involvement in children’s lives.
