Regina crushes stone while her children play beside her and help with light works. | Photo: Eye Radio

A medical doctor says South Sudanese neighborhoods are ‘no longer safe’ for child upbringing due to rampant domestic violence and increased alcoholic bars in residential areas.

Dr Gawar Isaac says intake of alcohol and drug abuse is common among parents and guardians in the communities and neighborhoods.

 “You know these days now, neighborhood is not safe anymore. You cannot have a bar or shop which has alcohol and at the same time there are children,” he told Eye Radio on Thursday.

Dr. Isaac also says some families encourage wife beating as a way to discipline mothers -something that will affect children over time.

“Child living in a home where parents or caretakers, children are usually at a higher risk of domestic violence.

“You know this is South Sudan, domestic violence is rampant and it has even reached to a level like the families will encourage a mother to be beaten and with time will have negative effect on the children.”

 Dr. Isaac emphasizes the need for safe spaces for children and encouraged parents or guardians to take care of their children by being closure to them.

 He advises parents not to neglect children as this constitute child abuse.

 “You should have spaces which are safe for children especially in the neighborhood and make sure they do not access things that can harm them.”

Defined by the Child Rights Resource Center in collaboration with Save the Children, child abuse encompasses acts or omissions by parents, guardians, or caregivers that can lead to severe physical or emotional harm.

Other forms include sexual abuse or exploitation place the child at risk of significant harm, hindering their long-term development and potential.

Gawar strongly discourages child abuse and urges parents to seek assistance in understanding their children’s behavior.

Opposed to beating a form of disciplining a child, Dr Isaac encourages parents to cultivate open communication with their children, adding that this will make children to explain themselves and their actions.

He stressed the need for parents to improve children’s social skills including communication and cognitive skills for their well-being in the communities.