Bloemfontein's call to action for families

The theme of the day was simple but profound: Accountability and collaboration for the sake of our children. But as the conference quickly made clear, this isn’t just a message for men. Women are equally part of the equation. One of the most important takeaways was that when we say, “fathers matter,” it’s not a call to fathers alone, it’s a reminder to women too. Both parents working together form the foundation for a child’s healthy growth. 

From the moment delegates walked in, you could feel the excitement in the hall at St John’s Methodist Church. There was energy, there was purpose, and above all, there was a shared commitment to create tangible change in the lives of children across the community. Heartlines Fathers Matter Church Lead Nkosinathi Sixabayi set the tone with a heartfelt opening address, reminding everyone that accountability in fatherhood isn’t about punishment, it’s about responsibility, love and showing up. Children are the true beneficiaries when fathers step into their rightful role, he emphasised, and the ripple effects touch families and communities.

Declarations that speak louder than words

One of the most memorable moments came in the form of public pledges, where commitment turned into action. Heartlines Community Mobilisation Lead Facilitator Jeff Cele led the men in the Dad Code declaration, a collective vow to live responsibly, love intentionally, and raise children with dignity. Right after, Heartlines representative Emmarentia Muller guided the women through the Mom Code, a pledge to actively support father involvement while continuing their vital roles in childcare. These dual declarations reminded everyone that raising children is never a solo mission. It’s a journey best undertaken together: fathers, mothers and communities walking hand in hand.

The FMAC wasn’t just speeches and pledges; it was alive with conversation, brainstorming and engagement. Delegates shared ideas on how to collaborate and exchanged practical solutions and ideas for how to hold one another accountable.

A standout moment came during the play Tsohle, brought to life by Titus Mekgwe. The drama reflects the harsh realities many families face when fathers are absent. The audience saw themselves in the story, and this sparked  honest dialogue about change, responsibility and community action. “There are many like Tsohle in our communities,” one delegate noted, echoing the urgent need for mentorship and accountability.

Hloni Ramosolo also took the stage to demonstrate a live Fathers Matter Coach conversation, showing how fathers and families can engage directly with the Coach. The session wasn’t just informative, it was practical. Delegates learned how easy it is to sign up, access information and receive ongoing support for everyday fatherhood challenges. This real-time application underscored the FMAC’s commitment to not just talk about change but make it actionable.

A recurring theme throughout the conference was the need to build momentum. Delegates agreed that similar practical gatherings should continue across Bloemfontein and beyond. Regular convenings will create spaces for men, women and communities to support one another and hold each other accountable.

The FMAC in Bloemfontein was more than a conference, it was a call to action. It reminded all in attendance that accountability isn’t about control; it’s love expressed through responsibility. When fathers rise, when mothers support, and when communities collaborate, children flourish.