In a tragic series of events reported across different regions of Kenya, multiple cases of suicide have recently come to light, shedding light on a concerning trend. One such incident involved Peter Maina Ngima, a 34-year-old patient attendant at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital in Nairobi, who was discovered lifeless in his home following a suspected suicide. Ngima, who failed to show up for work and could not be reached by phone, was found deceased with an electric cable tied around his neck in his house in the Umoja Three area of Nairobi.
Similarly, in Kasinga sublocation, Machakos county, Julius Ndolo Mbuthe, aged 66, took his life by hanging himself in his bedroom using a sisal rope. A suicide note left behind by Mbuthe highlighted the personal struggles he was facing as the reason for his drastic decision. Additionally, in Kakui village, Kilome, a 17-year-old boy tragically ended his life by hanging himself from a tree using a manila rope, with a suicide note found at the scene outlining the motivations behind his actions.
These heartbreaking incidents underscore a growing concern about the rising incidence of suicide throughout the country. The authorities are investigating each case, pointing to underlying issues such as joblessness, relationship challenges, academic stress, financial hardships, and mental health disorders as contributing factors to such tragedies. Globally, suicide remains a significant public health challenge, with the World Health Organization noting that a substantial proportion of cases occur in low- and middle-income countries like Kenya.
Recognizing the gravity of the mental health crisis, a task force in Kenya highlighted the urgent need to address the stigma surrounding mental illness and prioritize mental health as a critical public health and socioeconomic concern. With approximately one in every ten individuals in Kenya estimated to suffer from a common mental disorder, efforts are being made to increase access to mental health care while advocating for greater awareness and support for those grappling with mental health challenges.
