13 Nov 2024

 In a progressive move towards breaking cultural gender norms, some clinics in Botswana have adopted the initiative that  allows fathers to bypass queues during their visit to health facilities for their children’s routine health check-ups.

The move aims to stimulate  the interest of fathers in the care and development of their children and break the norm that fathers should only be available as providers.

As such, the initiative has been viewed by many as a positive step toward changing societal expectations  and also a commendable effort in promoting equal parental responsibility.

In an interview, National Men Sector coordinator Mr Nonofo Leteane said this recognised the role fathers played in ensuring the well being of their children.

The coordinator stated that gone were the days when men were relegated to the periphery when it comes to being involved in the healthcare and upbringing responsibilities of their children.

He said the initiative demonstrated a commitment to nurturing a generation of fathers who were actively engaged in their children’s healthcare and well being.

“By recognising the role of fathers, this sets precedence for an inclusive approach that prioritises the involvement of both parents in promoting the health of the younger generation,” said Mr Leteane citing the Molepolole District Health Management Team which has clinics that have come on board to embrace the initiative.

Kgosi Tachenama Maphorisa of Tatitown Customary Court believed that the initiative significantly contributed to promoting the role of parenting, particularly among men in Botswana.

She described the move as a meaningful gesture that would encourage more men to actively participate in the upbringing of their children at the same time, sending a strong message about the importance of fatherhood and parenting as a whole.

Kgosi Maphorisa believes that when both parents are equally involved, it sets a positive example for future generations.

“It is time for us to recognise that parenting is a shared responsibility. We need to break the outdated perception that child healthcare is solely a mother’s duty. Fathers have a crucial role to play, and they must step up,” she added.

For his part, Kgosi Pepukae Makambe of Monarch Customary Court shared the same sentiments, adding that by cutting the waiting time for men at clinics, it created a more welcoming and inclusive environment that recognised and valued the role of fathers.

He explained that the initiative could potentially lead to increased male involvement in healthcare decisions of their families, ultimately benefiting the wellbeing of children and the overall health of communities.

Kgosi Makambe emphasised the pressing need for fathers to take a more active role in the upbringing of their children, adding that the responsibility should be shared by both parents.

He emphasised that the call for mutual responsibility was relevant in today’s society, where traditional gender roles were evolving.

“By encouraging fathers to engage actively in their children’s lives, we hope to promote a more balanced approach,” said Kgosi Makambe. ENDS