Story by Patience Nyagato
FATHER’S Day commemorations held in Harare on Sunday shone a spotlight on men’s mental health and responsible fatherhood, with stakeholders urging men to seek support when faced with emotional and psychological challenges.
As the world marked Father’s Day, attention turned to the critical role fathers play in nurturing families and communities, amid growing calls for greater awareness of the pressures many men face.
The commemorations, held at Baradzanwa Cultural Village and led by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, brought together fathers, families and community leaders for discussions centred on fatherhood, mental well-being and family values.
Participants said men often shoulder significant responsibilities while lacking opportunities to openly discuss personal challenges.
“We are grateful for this day because it recognises fathers and allows us to talk about issues affecting us. As men, we go through a lot and sometimes carry burdens alone, so it is encouraging to have platforms where we can share and support one another,” an attendee said.
Another participant added: “Today’s celebrations mean a lot to us. Men face many pressures as providers and leaders of families, but we often do not have anyone to confide in. We are happy that issues such as mental health are now being openly discussed.”
The event also featured discussions through the Dare reMachinda platform, where mental health, responsible fatherhood and generational wealth emerged as key themes.
“As men, we should not suffer in silence. If something is troubling you, speak to someone and share your burdens. Mental health challenges are real and we must encourage one another to seek help and not allow problems to push us to suicide. There is always someone willing to listen and support you,” Dr Blessing Nyahuma of Dare reMachinda noted.
Dare reMachinda’s Evangelist Sam Marufu encouraged men to focus on creating lasting family legacies.
“A man must work hard for his family and think beyond today. Let us create wealth and leave an inheritance for our children and grandchildren so that future generations can benefit from our efforts,” he said.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi said the commemorations were designed to honour fathers while creating a platform to address issues affecting men.
“It is very important to celebrate our men. Our First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, is championing that. Through this initiative, we are also promoting domestic tourism. We understand that mental health is affecting many men and the message is clear, let us not turn to drugs, but sit down and talk about the issues together. Government is ready to address these challenges.”
The celebrations concluded with a performance by award-winning musician Jah Prayzah, capping a day dedicated to recognising fathers and promoting conversations around men’s well-being, family leadership and community development.
