The book, authored by Mireille Karera, Executive Chairperson of KORA Coaching & Business Academy (KCA), follows its international debut in Lagos, Nigeria.
It is part of a pan-African initiative aimed at addressing the profound social impact of fatherlessness in Africa.
Speaking at the launch, Karera reflected on her personal journey and why she felt compelled to write the book.
"I had to tell my story because as a coach, this is the process I went through," she explained. Although initially hesitant due to cultural perceptions around sharing personal stories, Karera realized her experience could empower others.
The book is not just a testimony of overcoming fatherlessness but also a self-coaching guide that helps readers navigate a 30-day healing journey.
The 30 chapters are designed to encourage introspection. Each chapter combines storytelling and research, allowing readers to reflect on their own experiences while offering practical tools for healing.
At the end of each chapter, guided questions prompt readers to reflect on their past, uncover hidden traumas, and move forward without being held back by past wounds.
"30 days are powerful. In psychology, 30 days can transform a mind," Karera emphasized, highlighting the importance of this timeframe for self-reflection and renewal.
The book's flexible structure allows readers to engage with it at their own pace; whether in the morning, at lunch, or before bed, providing a manageable approach that doesn't require professional intervention unless necessary.
The book delves into the impact of fatherlessness, with Karera tracing the issue across generations.
"My story starts with my grandfather, who worked for the king, then my father, and now I am the third generation dealing with fatherlessness," Karera shared.
Her narrative illustrates the crucial role fathers play in shaping a child's identity and the harmful effects of their absence.
'The book focuses on fatherlessness because fathers are the pillar of a child's identity,' she said, noting that while the book centers on fathers, it does not diminish the significance of mothers.
She added that no child comes into the world without a mother, emphasizing their essential role in nurturing and supporting a child's development.
Karera also revealed that she is working on another book dedicated to women as part of her self-coaching trilogy, underscoring her commitment to highlighting the influence of both parents in shaping a child's life.
This was a key motivation for her to write a book that addresses the needs of both women and men in Africa, acknowledging that fatherlessness profoundly affects society and future generations.
The event in Kigali also featured a mentoring program, where mothers and fathers shared their personal experiences with fatherlessness.
They discussed how the absence of fathers impacts children and explored strategies for overcoming these challenges through mentorship and self-awareness.
It was clear that maintaining strong communication and creating time for children, despite busy schedules, are essential for raising resilient individuals.
This program is part of the larger Forsaken for a Sake initiative by KCA and the Africa Re Foundation, which seeks to empower Africa's youth and women, in alignment with the African Union's Agenda 2063.
The initiative focuses on providing solutions to the challenges of fatherlessness, especially through intergenerational mentorship.
Karera's book is now available on platforms like Amazon and at the Kigali Public Library, offering a valuable resource for anyone looking to overcome the challenges of fatherlessness.
Théophile Niyitegeka
