Antony Chawagarira
MUREWA – Traditional leaders, health practitioners and community members gathered at Shawanhowe Resort in Murewa on Sunday to commemorate Father’s Day through a special event aimed at promoting men’s health, responsible fatherhood and family development.
The event, dubbed Dare Rana Baba, brought together chiefs, village heads, community leaders and residents from across Mashonaland East Province to discuss challenges affecting men and families in modern society.
Speaking during the gathering, traditional leaders underscored the importance of fathers in shaping stable families and cohesive communities, calling on men to take a leading role in parenting, mentorship and community development.
Chief Chikwaka said the platform had created an opportunity for fathers to openly share experiences and discuss issues affecting their lives.
“We are pleased that this event has brought us together as fathers and provided a space for meaningful discussions on the challenges we face as men and heads of families,” he said.
Chief Mangwende highlighted the need for continued engagement on issues such as mental health, family values and social pressures confronting men.
“We learnt a great deal from the discussions. Men need platforms where they can openly exchange ideas, support one another and find solutions to challenges affecting their families and communities,” he said.
Organiser Ms Debra Kavande said the initiative sought to celebrate fatherhood while raising awareness on critical health and social issues affecting men.
“Fatherhood comes with many responsibilities and challenges. Through this platform, men are encouraged to seek support, share experiences and learn from one another. Strong fathers help build strong families and stronger communities,” she said.
Health experts who attended the event urged men to pay greater attention to their physical and mental well-being, noting that many continue to suffer in silence due to societal expectations that discourage them from seeking help.
Participants also called for similar programmes to be rolled out in other districts to strengthen family structures, promote healthy lifestyles and enhance community development.
The commemorations concluded with the recognition of fathers who attended the event, honouring their contribution to nurturing families and supporting community growth.
The gathering highlighted the growing need for deliberate efforts to address men’s health concerns and reinforce the role of fathers as pillars of family and national development.
