Child Protection

Fathers hold a powerful place in the hearts and lives of their families. When they’re present and involved, especially during a child’s earliest years, their love and care can shape a child’s future in incredible ways.

Yet in many communities, fathers have traditionally taken a back seat when it comes to nurturing and raising young children. Across rural Zambia, many parents and caregivers lack the knowledge and skills to provide nurturing care. As a result, infants and young children often miss out on early stimulation, positive discipline, and nutritious feeding. These factors contribute to poor developmental outcomes, absenteeism, and even school dropouts.

A significant contributor to this challenge is the lack of male caregiver involvement, as many men view child-rearing as primarily a woman’s responsibility. Deeply rooted in traditional gender roles, men are often seen as breadwinners, while caregiving is perceived as “women’s work.” This perspective leads to men being less engaged in the day-to-day aspects of parenting, limiting their positive influence and reinforcing inequality within families.

But that’s beginning to change.

In response to this critical gap, ChildFund has been working to shift mindsets and empower men to take a more active role in parenting. Since 2021, ChildFund has trained over 5,000 fathers across several communities in Katete, Nyimba, Petauke and Chibombo districts to embrace their roles as caregivers and emotional anchors, especially during the first 1,000 days of a child’s life. Through sensitization campaigns and parenting sessions, fathers are learning that their involvement is transformative. That their work isn’t just to provide but also to actively engage in their child’s development — emotionally, physically, and mentally. Fathers are realizing that their support in nurturing a child, through simple acts like playing, talking, and being present, has a profound impact on a child’s health and future success.

And the impact is already visible.

Greater father involvement is leading to stronger family bonds, improved child development outcomes, and reduced stress on mothers. In many families, children are now growing up in environments where both parents are emotionally available and engaged.

Lembani, 31, is one of the fathers whose outlook has been transformed. “I used to think taking care of babies and small children was my wife’s responsibility,” he admits. “I believed my job was just to provide food and discipline when needed. My older children are afraid of me, and I now realize we’ve missed out on building a real relationship. This training has been my turning point.”

“I want my children to be kind,” he says. “But more than that, I want them to feel close to me. I grew up fearing my father. I don’t want that cycle to continue.”
While change doesn’t happen overnight, Lembani is already seeing signs of progress. “My youngest son is only three and isn’t used to being hugged or playing with me yet. But I’m not giving up. We’re making progress, and I know we’ll soon be best friends.”

Another father, Kondwani, reflects on the difference his involvement is making at home. “Before, my wife would be cooking, cleaning, and caring for the baby while I just waited for meals,” he says. “She was overwhelmed. Now I help out, and spending time with my child has become something I truly look forward to. That little smile is everything.”

Fathers who attend the training sessions are introduced to practical tools like baby talk, positive discipline, and intentional bonding techniques that foster trust and love.ChildFund is helping to build a new generation of dads who are present, compassionate, and proud to be a part of their children’s everyday lives.