#16DaysofActivism: NGO urges parents to stop buying toy guns for kids
An NGO that advocates for gender justice has urged parents during the 16 Days of Activism campaign to think carefully about the toys and electronic devices they buy their children.
As part of Newswatch's special focus on the 16 Days of Activism campaign, East Coast Radio takes a look at how play-shooting among children can contribute to violent behaviour later in life.
The number of women killed in KwaZulu-Natal between 2017 and 2018 came in the figure of 665. The following year, that figure nationally stood at 2 771.
For, Gun Free South Africa and NGO, Sonke Gender Justice, it was these alarming statistics that laid the foundation for their campaign, "Don’t Groom For Violence!"
Senior trainer at Sonke Gender Justice, Suleiman Henry said: “Toys are an instrument of socialization, every toy given to a child carries the message that we approve of that toy. When we buy toys that imitate real weapons, children are encouraged to play at violence, so normalising violence.
"Instead of being socialised into violence, boys should be encouraged to embrace their caring side. We want to raise boys that say no to violence, who are considerate fathers and supportive partners.”
LISTEN:
Meanwhile, ECR has also been speaking to the founder of GNetwork108, Mayshree Bhim.
She started a networking company whose ultimate aim is to help women and youth in various aspects of life and career.
LISTEN:
