Chronicle Editor
Flora Fadzai Sibanda, [email protected]
IN a world where women are often celebrated for their roles as mothers and the bringers of life, it’s all too easy to overlook the contributions and sacrifices made by fathers — the unsung heroes of our homes.
While the focus is often on mothers, let us not forget the little things that fathers do, quietly and selflessly, to support and enrich their families.
They may not be the ones cooking or cleaning, but they are there, entertaining their children, teaching them to ride a bike for the first time, and bonding with them over a shared love for sports on lazy Sunday afternoons.
Fathers are often the ones who take on the school runs, ensuring the safety of their children and shielding them from harm, even if it means protecting them from their own mothers at times.
And let us not overlook the immense support and understanding they provide during pregnancy — the mood swings, the cravings, the physical and emotional changes that their partners go through. Fathers endure it all, standing strong by their side. After the birth of their child, they take on the weight of providing for their family — managing finances, juggling diapers, school fees, clothes, and food. It’s a role they embrace with love, demonstrating their unwavering commitment.
Sadly, the joys of fatherhood are often overshadowed and under-appreciated. Fathers are expected to ensure their children’s needs are met, silently carrying the responsibility without complaint.
Last Sunday the world celebrated Father’s Day and we had the privilege of speaking with a few fathers who shared their experiences and shed light on the significance of their roles.
Mlungisi Moyo, a loving father, fondly recalls the mix of excitement and nervousness he felt when he first learned his wife was pregnant four years ago. From that moment, through the birth of their second child just this week, Mlungisi has discovered the true value and beauty of being a father.
“I spend most of the time with my daughter, well, now that we just welcomed the second one l should be saying with my daughters. I am working on my music career but despite the busy schedules l always make sure to make time for them. It’s the little things that I do with them that matter from taking them to the studio with me, to playing indoor games with them just for fun,” said Mlungisi.
Raymond Matikari views Father’s Day as a reminder of his journey as a father — a journey that began seven years ago when his son was born.
For him, the greatest privilege of fatherhood, particularly with a son, lies in the opportunity to shape and guide his child into becoming a responsible young man, one who will pass on those values to future generations.
“Not everyone can be a father, this is one thing that needs a lot of courage and maturity because if one does not have it they easily fail in being good fathers. I would say being a father is like being a manufacturer because you need to make sure all your things are in order,” said Raymond.
Lebo, another dedicated father, emphasises the profound joy that fatherhood brings. He highlights the dependency and pure love his child offers, while marvelling at the miraculous transformation from a tiny fetus nestled in the mother’s womb to a full-fledged human being.
“My baby is now two years and the journey has been amazing. I would say to all fathers always make sure that if you get a chance to be a father utilise it properly without wasting the opportunity. “Most of us men are surprised when we find out we are going to be fathers but once that wears off it becomes an amazing feeling,” said Lebo.
Let us take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the fathers in our lives. They may not always seek recognition or applause, but their unwavering love, dedication, and quiet sacrifices form the foundation of a happy and thriving family. They are the unsung heroes, the silent strength behind every household, and we honour them.-@flora_sibanda
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