Low key Fathers’ Day fete as cost of living bites

As Fathers Day was marked yesterday, not all Kenyan dads had something to look forward to due to the hard economic times.

Apart from the day being one of the least observed in Kenya, many families spent it sending wishes to their dads as they lamented the high cost of living.

Getrude Ndavi, a producer at The Switch, a show that airs on K24 every Sunday, said there was a contrast in this year’s celebration because they did not have companies partnering with them to help celebrate fathers.

“This year we felt the impact of the high cost of living because unlike last year we didn’t have vouchers to give to fathers during the live show which was due to companies cutting costs,” she said.

Ndavi said that this year, many people were complaining about how the increase in prices had forced them to forego luxuries.

“This year we just wanted to celebrate and reflect on the relationship between father and child as well as acknowledge and appreciate the roles played by fathers and father-figures,” noted Ndavi.

Yesterday, the show asked viewers to forward some of the photos they had with their fathers which they aired with heartwarming wishes.

“We were delighted to have captured so many hearts and got so many reactions from people which felt amazing because some fathers couldn’t hide the joy of seeing their faces on live television,” she said.

In addition, we gave some father’s a free counseling session with Dr Mercy Mueni, a psychologist, which doubled up as a great gift to commemorate men’s mental health month.

Some hospitals and restaurants, however, held activities to celebrate fathers.

“I didn’t have a gift in mind so I thought of doing something special to my father because he has always been present and has always taken the responsibility to ensure that he steps up to be a father, a leader, a role model, and a priest of our family, that is why I organised a lunch date for us to celebrate him on this special day,” said Juliet Kerubo.

Father’s day is celebrated every third Sunday of June to honour fatherhood and paternal bonds, as well as the influence of fathers in the society.