A study on fatherhood in Ethiopia reveals that traditional patriarchal norms limit fathers’ roles primarily to financial providers and overseers, with caregiving responsibilities largely assigned to women. Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 fathers from southern Ethiopia, focusing on their perceptions of paternal roles influenced by cultural factors. The analysis showed that most fathers viewed their contributions as financial support, social participation, and supervisory roles in maternal caregiving, while emotional nurturing and direct child-rearing were seen as women’s tasks. Participation in household chores, like cooking and childcare, was minimal, underscoring entrenched gender norms. The findings highlight the ongoing influence of traditional views on fatherhood that restrict male involvement in caregiving, perpetuating gender inequalities and placing excessive burdens on mothers. The study advocates for culturally sensitive strategies and policy interventions to redefine paternal roles, promote equitable parenting, and align family practices with global health and development goals.