Every year, on the third Sunday in June, the world celebrates Father’s Day—a day to honor fathers and male figures who play meaningful paternal roles in the lives of others. At Asante Africa Foundation, we believe it’s a moment to express gratitude for the sacrifices, steadfast love, and guidance that fathers provide. Whether through thoughtful gifts, shared meals, or simply quality time, Father’s Day is a cherished celebration for the entire family.

Father’s Day has deep roots in American history. The idea began on July 5, 1908, in memory of 362 men killed in a mining explosion in Monongah, West Virginia. Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington—herself raised by a single father and Civil War veteran—championed the idea of honoring fathers like her own. The first official Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910. Today, the tradition continues worldwide. 

At Asante Africa Foundation, we see firsthand the crucial role fathers play in supporting their children’s futures. Working in partnership with parents is core to how we achieve lasting change. Parental engagement strengthens ties between families, educators, and rural East African communities—reinforcing children’s learning both in and out of the classroom. Through organized parent meetings, we encourage fathers to take active roles in their children’s education. 

Often, the love of a father goes unspoken. It lacks the sentimental visibility that maternal love often enjoys—perhaps due to cultural expectations or the quieter ways fathers tend to show their care.

In East Africa, many fathers actively support their daughters’ education, yet they face significant challenges. While 89.9% of fathers are involved in caregiving activities, societal expectations still often cast them primarily as breadwinners. Long working hours, distant job locations, and financial strain make it harder for them to provide emotional and educational support.

But when fathers engage, the results are powerful. Parental support helps break down negative traditional norms, address social challenges, and improve educational outcomes. Together with parents, we’ve provided essential tools—such as tablets and computers—that empower students with digital skills for the modern world.

As we mark Father’s Day 2025, we reaffirm the crucial role fathers play in shaping their children’s futures—especially for daughters in rural areas who continue to face barriers like marginalization and lack of opportunity.

In a region where economic hardship still forces many young girls into early marriage, the growing number of fathers championing their daughters’ education is a beacon of hope. A father’s involvement can mean the difference between a girl leaving school early and sacrificing her autonomy or completing her education and pursuing her dreams.

Still, there is work to be done. With only 39% of girls in East Africa completing primary school, it is critical that both fathers and mothers receive the support they need to guide their children toward brighter futures.

Our work in East Africa continues to demonstrate that when fathers are engaged in their children’s education, outcomes improve dramatically. Families become empowered. Learning is reinforced at home. And children dare to dream bigger and reach further.

This Father’s Day, we honor the fathers who stand with us in our mission. Your commitment is shaping lives, transforming futures, and building stronger communities.

Whether you are a biological father, stepfather, foster dad, or a father figure in any capacity, we thank you. Your support is helping to empower youth and uplift communities across East Africa.

Happy Father’s Day!

             WRITTEN BY: Victoria Kwamaamabe