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Today Uganda joins the rest of the globe to commemorate Father's Day, which is a holiday honoring one's father, or relevant father figure, as well as fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society.

Samuel Bakutana who is a provincial President of the Fathers’ Union says being a father comes with a huge responsibility. It is also important to know that responsibility is hinged on the status of their marriage.

“The relationship with your wife creates the environment in the home in which the children will grow or not grow well. So on a day like this, the fathers need to realize that fatherhood is so much connected with being a husband, and having a good relationship with your wife,” says Bakutana, who also doubles as Certified Executive Coach, Leadership Consultant, Global Speaker and Author and Chief Executive officer at Inspired Leaders International.

Additionally, a father’s presence and availability in the life of their children are critically important.

Robert Larubi with his wife and their daughter. (All photos by Agnes Kyotalengerire)

“It is not enough for us to give them presents, but rather important to give them our presence. Lately, many fathers are focusing on presents, instead they need to refocus their minds on their presence,” he says and is quick to add that men or fathers should reflect on the importance of values and principles around which the life of their children rotate.

Besides, fathers need to think about the family legacy that they are going to leave behind. Because at the end of the day, they will not be remembered for the pieces of land they bought, the houses they built, the cars they drove, the positions they held in society but rather who they left behind,” he says

What is of eternal significance is a legacy of impact, a legacy of meaningful living, a legacy of well-raised children, a legacy of an attractive marriage, a legacy of dependability and reliability. So that when the children say father, they remember good memories, a role model, good example, good partner or somebody who ministered, mentored and modelled them, Bakutana says.

Fatherhood speak out

Binalisa Kyabagadha who is further of one says fatherhood means joy. It is a natural responsibility that comes with determination love, and acceptance and it is priceless. This means there is no price attached to it. Whatever little you have, one can still be a father, Kyabagadha says.

Binalisa Kyabagadha with his wife Doreck celebrating the first birthday of their son.

Simon Kasyate, who is the KCCA spokesperson, says the responsibilities of a father range from physical presence, emotional support, and financial plus other provisions that are part of his daily menu of existence. 

Today was particularly heartwarming and spirit-lifting for Kasyate when the first thing he woke up to was a message from his daughter, expressing her love and affection! He says the day comes as a pleasant reminder that the fathers’ invaluable efforts do not go unnoticed!

Robert Pat Larubi, who is a father of eight says Fathers’ day is a time to think, focus and pull back and recount what à father has done or not been able to do and he wants to do it differently. According to Larubi, fathers’ day is a review of his roles and connection with his children and family at large

As a young father, Larubi pledges not to be an absent father but rather a light in his children’s life. 

The bond with his children is strong and that is what makes him feel there is a better future ahead