BY Daniel Bampoe
A seemingly light-hearted Father’s Day post by President John Dramani Mahama has sparked a nationwide discussion about parental appreciation, gender expectations and the differing ways society celebrates mothers and fathers.
The conversation began on Father’s Day when President Mahama shared photographs comparing the flower bouquets he received with those presented to First Lady Lordina Mahama during Mother’s Day celebrations earlier in the year.
While the First Lady’s room appeared filled with bouquets, gift packages and colourful floral arrangements, the President’s display was noticeably modest.Accompanying the images was a brief but thought-provoking caption: “Fathers! Hmmm!!!”
Though simple, the message resonated with many Ghanaians who interpreted it as a reflection on what some see as an imbalance in how mothers and fathers are appreciated.
The post quickly gained traction across social media platforms, generating widespread discussion about the sacrifices parents make and the recognition they receive in return.
The debate intensified after prominent broadcaster and lawyer Serwaa Amihere publicly reacted to the President’s post. Sharing a screenshot of the images on X, formerly Twitter, she posed a question that immediately drew mixed reactions from social media users.
“Do men like flowers? I’m curious,” she wrote.
Her response triggered an avalanche of comments, with many Ghanaians arguing that the President’s post was never specifically about flowers but rather about appreciation, recognition and gratitude towards fathers. Several social media users insisted that flowers merely symbolised affection and thoughtfulness, stressing that the broader issue was whether fathers receive the same level of acknowledgment and celebration that mothers often enjoy on their special day.
Others noted that many men quietly shoulder family responsibilities and personal sacrifices but are rarely celebrated publicly for their efforts. According to some commentators, the President’s post captured a sentiment shared by many fathers who feel their contributions are often overlooked.
The discussion also revived a popular saying frequently shared online that “many men receive their first flowers only after they die,” a phrase often used to highlight society’s tendency to recognise men’s efforts only after they are gone.Supporters of Serwaa Amihere, however, argued that her question was valid and pointed out that men and women often have different preferences when it comes to gifts.
They maintained that appreciation should not necessarily be measured by flowers or elaborate displays but by meaningful gestures suited to the recipient.
Beyond the social media exchanges, the debate has opened a broader conversation about family values and cultural attitudes toward parenting in Ghana. Mother’s Day celebrations traditionally attract extensive public attention, with gifts, tributes and social media campaigns dedicated to mothers. Father’s Day, while observed, often receives considerably less publicity and fanfare.
Many contributors to the discussion suggested that society should move towards a more balanced culture of appreciation, ensuring that both mothers and fathers receive recognition for their contributions to family life.President Mahama’s post, though brief and informal, has therefore succeeded in drawing attention to an issue that resonates with many Ghanaian families.
What began as a Father’s Day reflection has evolved into a wider national conversation about gratitude, recognition and the importance of celebrating parents equally.
