Parenting is a joy that so many mothers find easy to share with the world. There are so many motherhood blogs sharing different things from how to care for yourself during pregnancy to where to buy toys and how to bond with your kids. But, in sharp contrast, fatherhood blogs are almost non-existent in the African blogging space!
Why are African fathers so reluctant to share about fatherhood?
African men can be found blogging about sport, politics, literature, and fashion, This suggests that fatherhood is a topic that African men are deliberately avoiding. Many African fathers cite a lack of adequate time to blog and post consistently, while some find it hard to open up about what they consider their private life.
Apart from society’s expectations which makes most men hide emotions, it seems generally, men have less to talk about when it comes to kids as they leave much of the caregiving and day-to-day activities to women.
Why start an African Daddy Blog?
- African Daddy Blogs are in short supply
We have already established that daddy blogs are almost non-existent in the African blogging space. This means that there are a lot of people in need of the value that only a male perspective blog on parenting can offer. New fathers seek advice on how to be good fathers and how to be better partners to their wives. Children could be trying to understand why fathers behave in some way while mothers are in need of inspiration to share with their husbands. There is a world of possibilities that can be fulfilled by an African blog on fatherhood!
- An African Daddy blog would be inspirational
This could change the perspective of many “absent fathers” It would show that fatherhood is more than providing financial support but more about being present for your family. Such a blog could also prove critical in shifting the gendered roles narrative prevalent in African parenting as cited by Osmund Agbo in The Emptiness of Fatherhood: “…our society has to accord more recognition to the pivotal role that men play in the family unit and their yearning to be actively involved in raising their children.“
- Its a great legacy
Imagine one day, once you are gone, your child picks up a tablet, or phone, to find a link you left. One that will tell them who you were, what you wished for them, and what your thoughts, hopes, and aspirations were. They can get to know you and so much more from the interactions on your blog.
- Its good for mental health
Writing can be used as an inexpensive way to have therapy. It is a great way to find meaning in experiences or view things from a new perspective. Simple as it may be, writing has helped many people suffering from depression, substance abuse, chronic illnesses as well as those dealing with grief and loss to improve their mental health well-being. Acting macho has derailed efforts towards male mental well-being worldwide. This could be an opportunity to open up and share with other father issues that bother you.
- Encourages fathers to spend time with kids to create memories
I think one of the factors hindering fathers from writing in this niche is the lack of what to write about! Most fathers spend less time with kids hence they may struggle to have enough content. A blog will inspire you to spend more time with your kids, giving you a new sense of purpose and happiness in the process because nothing makes a great story than things you have experienced and lived through.
Start here
Afrobloggers is inviting fathers who want to start daddy blogs to reach out and be assisted free of charge. Send a WhatsApp message to Afrobloggers on +26371964443
In your opinion what else can be done to encourage fathers to share?
Here are some African Daddy Blogs to check out
https://www.afrodaddyonline.com/
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