This archive report was first published on 12 December 2019.
According to psychologist Emmanuel Masheti, a father-figure is crucial in an ideal family setup, shaping a child's character and influencing their social and emotional development.
Research has shown that children emulate their parents, and the phrase 'Mtoto umleavyo, ndivyo akuavyo' (a child will grow up to be what they were raised to be) highlights the critical role parents play in their child's upbringing.
While single parenthood is common, it remains stigmatized in Kenyan society, particularly if it's not due to the death of a spouse. In traditional African settings, the father is seen as the head of the family, responsible for providing for the family.
However, times have changed, and the roles are increasingly being shared by both men and women. The family unit in Africa is well-defined, with clear-cut roles that go beyond the 'provider' role of the father and the 'care-giver' role of the mother.
Studies have concluded that children with present and supportive fathers are more likely to be mentally and emotionally stable. Affectionate fathers positively affect a child's cognitive and social development, instilling an overall sense of well-being and self-confidence.
Jeff Dindi, a YouTube channel owner, hopes to inspire young fathers to be present in their children's lives, believing that his presence would help mold his children into respectable adults.
"The presence of a father is vital. Children learn by emulating others, and they cannot emulate someone who is absent," says Jeff.
He also believes that through setting an example for his children, he can help break societal prejudices and make them more aware of the realities of the ever-changing world.
"I do house chores that are traditionally tasked to women. As they watch, they grow up acknowledging that these roles can be shared, hence they learn to respect women which, in the long run, helps promote gender equality," he adds.
