PHOTOS: Radio Africa marks Father's Day with call for active parenting

Radio Africa Group Chief Executive Officer Martin Khafafa, Group Finance Manager James Mundia, Business Editor Francis Openda, Team Lead Visual Content Dennis Milimo and radio presenter Tonio Kibz cutting cake during the event/ VICTOR IMBOTO

Radio Africa Group has commemorated Father's Day with a celebration honouring fathers and aspiring fathers across the organisation, with speakers urging men to embrace active parenting, mentorship and responsibility both at home and in society.

Although Father's Day was officially observed on Sunday, the media house held its celebration later in the week, bringing together management and staff to recognise the contribution of fathers while reflecting on the challenges and responsibilities of parenthood.

Speaking during the celebration, Group Chief Executive Officer Martin Khafafa thanked employees who attended the company's farewell event for outgoing chairman Kiprono Kittony despite transport challenges experienced the previous day, before extending his Father's Day message to staff.

"I see myself as a father to all 465 of you, and what I just try and do is to provide, to protect and to be present," Khafafa said.

He also acknowledged women who have had to take up fatherly responsibilities in their families, saying they equally deserved recognition for carrying the burden of raising children.

Group Human Resource Manager Jemima Ngode, who opened the celebration, congratulated fathers and aspiring fathers, describing parenthood as a responsibility that requires courage and commitment.

She said Radio Africa was celebrating not only fathers but also aspiring fathers, while recognising the contribution women make in earning the title of father through shared parenting responsibilities.

"We celebrate all fathers and aspiring fathers. It takes boldness to take up the role of a father and protect children. At the same time, we cannot forget the women who also contribute to the father title because it takes two to have a child," Ngode said.

Business Editor Francis Openda told colleagues that there is no universal formula for fatherhood, urging men to prioritise being present in their children's lives from an early age.

He advised fathers to provide for their families, show love and build lasting relationships with their children before they become teenagers.

"There is no template for fatherhood. You figure it out as you go, but the basics remain the same: provide, be present and love your children," Openda said.

He further challenged men to be "Baba" rather than "Mbaba", saying fathers should focus on raising and mentoring their children instead of pursuing romantic relationships with women young enough to be their daughters.

Also reflecting on the demands of balancing family life with professional responsibilities, Group Finance Manager James Mundia likened fatherhood to driving at night where one can only see a short distance ahead.

He encouraged fathers to continue showing up for their families every day despite the challenges.

"Fatherhood has no template, but you keep moving forward by navigating what is ahead of you one step at a time," Mundia said.

One of the company's newest fathers, Denis Milimo, shared his experience of parenthood, saying he was still learning but had already discovered the fulfilment that comes with raising a child.

"I was not prepared to speak today, but happy Father's Day to all fathers and aspiring fathers. It is a good journey. We are still learning, but I am grateful. To those aspiring, welcome to this other side," Milimo said.