Accra: As Ghana joins the rest of the world to celebrate Father’s Day, Mrs. Lordina Mahama, the First Lady, expressed heartfelt appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for his support and guidance to his family and the country as a whole. In a touching message to her husband, Mrs. Mahama wrote: “To my amazing husband and a truly wonderful father John Dramani Mahama! Happy Father’s Day! Thank you for your strength, guidance, and the endless love you give our family. Bless you always!”
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), also exhorted fathers for their resilience and commitment to building stronger families and societies. “To all fathers, your dedication, sacrifices, and love are the bedrock of our families and nations,” he said. “We salute you!”
Father’s Day is an occasion to honour and appreciate fathers and father figures for their love, sacrifices, guidance, and unwavering support in the lives of their children and families. Although the specific date of observance varies from country to country, many nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Ghana, India, and South Africa, commemorate the day on the third Sunday of June. Despite its widespread recognition, for most countries, Father’s Day is not marked as a public holiday.
The modern concept of Father’s Day is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It was first celebrated in 1910, spearheaded by Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington. Inspired by Mother’s Day, Dodd sought to honour her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran who raised six children as a single parent after the death of his wife. Her advocacy led to the first local celebration, and over the decades, the idea gained national and eventually international traction. In 1972, United States President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation making Father’s Day a permanent national holiday in the United States, celebrated on the third Sunday in June.
Father’s Day is more than just a celebration; it is a moment to reflect on the unique role fathers play in families and society. It acknowledges the efforts of fathers who provide, protect, nurture, teach, and serve as role models. For many, the day extends to grandfathers, uncles, guardians, mentors, and any male figure who has played a paternal role. On this day, children and families express their gratitude through various gestures, handwritten notes, cards, thoughtful gifts, special meals, or simply spending quality time together. Schools, community organisations, and religious institutions often hold events and services to mark the day.
Despite the variations in the date of celebration among various countries, the sentiment behind Father’s Day remains the same, recognising and cherishing the contributions of fatherhood and paternal bonds. In today’s evolving world, the role of fathers continues to grow and adapt. From being caregivers and teachers to partners and leaders, modern fatherhood embraces empathy, presence, and emotional intelligence. Father’s Day serves as a gentle reminder to pause and appreciate the quiet strength, resilience, and love that fathers and father figures bring to humanity. Whether near or far, living or remembered, their impact endures in countless ways.