Mothers have been urged to make their children aware of the sacrifices and contributions fathers make towards the welfare of their families.
They were encouraged to ensure that children appreciated the efforts and provisions made by their fathers, even when those fathers were frequently absent due to work commitments.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) ahead of Father’s Day celebrations on Sunday, June 21, Mr Enoch Gyasi Boateng, an Information Officer at the Information Services Department (ISD), expressed concern about what he described as a growing tendency to overlook or conceal fathers’ contributions from their children.
He said many fathers bore enormous responsibilities, including long working hours and extended periods away from home, in order to provide financially for their families.
“The children should know that the money is coming from the father who has had sleepless nights on the road,” Mr Boateng said.
He noted that helping children understand such sacrifices would enable them to appreciate the efforts their fathers made on their behalf.
Mr Boateng cited the example of some fathers who spent long hours on highways such as the Accra-Kumasi road and sometimes slept under trucks and vehicles while working, underscoring the physical and emotional toll associated with providing for their families.
Mr Felix Attukwei Quaye, the Deputy Director of Information Technology at the GNA, said fatherhood extended beyond biological parenthood to include leadership, nurturing, provision of resources and guiding others towards fulfilling their potential.
“It’s good to be a father and it’s good to be celebrated by others, just as we do for mothers. Unfortunately, we don’t often receive the same recognition. Sometimes, it is a lonely place to be as a father,” he said.
Mr Quaye noted that fatherhood brought great joy when approached responsibly and offered valuable lessons when challenges arose.
Mr Morkporkpor Anku, a journalist with the GNA, urged wives and mothers to desist from downplaying or concealing fathers’ contributions in the home, which could create the impression that fathers were indifferent to family responsibilities.
He said he performed his fatherly duties with joy but admitted that he felt concerned whenever he was unable to provide everything his family needed.
“Providing is easier and enjoyable when there is money, but it becomes something else when there is no money,” Mr Anku stated.
Mr Samuel Kwei Quaye, Technical Coordinator at the GNA, said many fathers were deeply committed to the welfare of their children and went to great lengths to ensure they received the care and support they needed.
“I have friends and brothers who are like me. They are very passionate about their children, so they do everything possible to make sure that their children get the necessary care that they need,” he said.
He attributed improvements in responsible fatherhood to technology, which had made it easier for fathers to remain connected with and involved in the lives of their children.
Ms Regina Tagoe, a staff member of the ISD, said she had often heard negative narratives about fathers but hoped such perceptions would change.
“My father has been responsible from day one until now, so from my experience, I believe fathers are truly responsible, and I am grateful to have such a father,” she said.
Ms Sandra Amarkai Ollennu, a National Service Personnel at the GNA, shared fond memories of her late father and described him as a loving and caring parent whose influence continued to inspire her.
