Online Reporter
Gift Moyo [email protected]
IN a notable shift from its traditional women-focused programming, Women of Strength and Dignity (WOSAD) partnered with Men of Valour and Ethical Conduct (MOVEC) to host a Father’s Day workshop aimed at empowering men with practical skills, financial knowledge and leadership values.
The workshop, held in Bulawayo on Sunday under the theme Celebrating Fatherhood through Empowerment, brought together fathers from different communities for a programme designed to strengthen their roles within households and society.
Proceedings began at 8am with a keynote address from Pastor Reuben Mafefe, who urged men to prioritise spiritual grounding alongside financial responsibility as key pillars of effective fatherhood. He emphasised the importance of economic stability within the home, arguing that financial discipline is part of responsible leadership.
“At home, money must be present. Aim to be a father who accumulates wealth to the point where they forget money in their pockets when they come home. A father who turns the house upside down looking for a dollar is not doing his job as a father,” said Mafefe.
He, however, cautioned that wealth creation must be balanced with faith and integrity.
“In your attempts to accumulate wealth and become financially stable, remember to remain faithful to God,” he added.
The programme then moved into practical training sessions focused on income-generating projects. Rejoice Fusire led a session on beekeeping, combining theory with hands-on demonstration, using participant Mr Alson Bhebhe to illustrate how proper management, skills and maintenance are key to successful hive production.
The workshop further explored agribusiness opportunities, with Mushroom Production Specialist Ambrose Sibanda guiding participants on how to transform mushroom farming into viable commercial enterprises capable of supporting household incomes.
Academia and personal development were also highlighted, with Dr Chris Ndlovu of Lupane State University encouraging men to embrace writing and continuous learning. Drawing from his 30 years of publishing experience, he challenged participants to develop intellectual discipline alongside economic pursuits.
Closing the workshop, WOSAD leader Mrs Thembelihle Madondo challenged men to strengthen family relationships through appreciation and small acts of gratitude, particularly towards their spouses. She encouraged fathers to actively acknowledge the contributions of their wives in sustaining households and maintaining family stability.
As a symbolic gesture, Madondo also presented participants with practical tools to support their daily responsibilities at home.
The event was widely described by attendees as impactful, with many men saying they left equipped with practical skills and renewed perspectives on leadership, responsibility and family life.
Organisers said the workshop marked an important step in expanding empowerment programmes to include men, strengthening the role of fathers as key pillars in community development.
