By Morkporkpor Anku
Accra, June 21, GNA – The Reverend Nathaniel Affram, District Minister of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana, Kaneshie Parish, Sunday called for renewed commitment to fatherhood, saying the healing and progress of Ghana depend largely on fathers building meaningful relationships with their children.
He said fatherhood should be viewed as a national development issue rather than a private family matter because the values children acquire at home ultimately shaped society.
The Rev.D.N.A. Affram, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency to commemorate Father’s Day celebration, said Ghana’s future was being shaped in homes through the daily interactions fathers chose to have or avoid with their children.
“The future of this nation is not shaped in Parliament or in boardrooms. It is shaped in homes, around dinner tables and in the daily conversations fathers choose to have or avoid with their children,” he said.
He observed that many fathers were physically present in their homes but emotionally distant from their children.
“They provide food but not friendship. They provide shelter but not security. They finance education but leave the formation of character to someone else,” he said.
Rev. Affram warned that the absence of fathers, whether physical or emotional, left lasting scars on children and contributed to several social challenges confronting the country.
He cited studies by child development experts indicating that children with engaged fathers were more likely to develop emotional resilience, self-confidence and the ability to make sound decisions.
The Clergyman urged fathers to use Father’s Day as a period of reflection and renewal by investing more time and affection in their children.
He encouraged fathers who had been absent from their children’s lives not to give up, saying relationships could still be restored through deliberate efforts.
“A phone call can begin the repair. A renewed commitment and a simple decision to draw near can make a difference,” he said.
Rev. Affram called on churches, schools and workplaces to support responsible fatherhood and recognise men who raised children with integrity and commitment.
Quoting the book of Malachi, he said national restoration began when fathers turned their hearts towards their children and children responded in love.
He expressed the hope that Ghana would witness stronger families and communities if fathers embraced their responsibilities with dedication and compassion.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
Reporter: Morkporkpor Anku