By Elizabeth Angira, DevReporter, Kisii County
Critical questions on the subject of suicide often arise. These questions revolve around how serious a problem suicide in Kenya is. Questions also arise as to whether suicide is a crime, a social problem or a health condition.
Statistics on suicide
“Every suicide is a tragedy that affects families, communities and entire countries, and leaves long-lasting effects on the people left behind,” the WHO says.
The World Bank also reports that suicide mortality rate in Kenya is 6.1 people in every 100,000. Men are at the highest risk with 9.1 in every 100,000 affected.
Further, a National Police Service (NPS) report says that Kisii County recorded 93 suicidal cases in 2021 with men accounting for 81 cases or 87 percent.
“This number of suicide cases within a span of one year is alarming,” says Mr Francis Kooli, the Kisii County Police Commander.
Suicide and the law
According to Chapter 63, Section 226 of Kenya’s Penal Code, any person who attempts to commit suicide is guilty of a misdemeanor. The law stipulates a penalty of up to two years in prison or a fine or both.
Causes of suicide
Mr Kooli attributes the rising cases of suicide to a number of factors which include land disputes, domestic violence, substance or drug abuse, financial issues and other behavioural challenges.
Ms Esnahs Nyaramba, a leader of a youth lobby group, the Young Democrats agrees with Mr Kooli. According to her, loss of jobs and lack of guidance and counselling are some of the causes of suicide cases among men.
Who is at risk?
The WHO says suicide is a global phenomenon with over 77 percent of suicides occurring in low and middle income countries in 2019.
According to WHO, “many suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis with a breakdown in the ability to deal with life stresses, such as financial problems, relationship break-ups or chronic pain and illness”.
WHO adds that experiencing conflict, disaster, violence, abuse or loss and a sense of isolation are strongly associated with suicidal behaviour.
Solution to the suicide problem
Ms Nyaramba calls on the national and county governments to facilitate guidance and counselling services at all health facilities to help prevent suicide. She says that the majority of the vulnerable members of society cannot afford to access these services in the private sector.
Dr Ruth Mogaka, a psychologist, calls on members of the public to seek guidance and counseling since “a problem shared is a half solved.”
“Our men facing any life challenge should put aside the notion that being a man you cannot speak out about your problems,” she advised.
WHO recommends a number of effective evidence-based interventions to prevent suicide, which include limiting access to the means of suicide such as pesticides, firearms, certain medications. etc.
The media also has a role to play by adopting responsible reporting of suicide, according to WHO.
WHO further recommends fostering of social and emotional life skills in adolescents and early identification, assessment, management and follow up with anyone who displays suicidal behaviours.
Initiatives to address rising number of suicides
In an effort to address the high number of suicidal cases amongst men, the Kisii County Government, in collaboration with the National Government and other stakeholders, has initiated measures, among them, the formation of Baraza la Wanaume Programme.
The Programme targets both young and old men with the aim of enlightening them on how to handle life’s challenges in order to limit suicidal tendencies.
“This Programme offers men a platform to speak out their personal and marital problems that may lead to suicidal thoughts,” explains Mr Wilberforce Kilonzo, the Kisii Central Deputy County Commissioner.
Mr Kilonzo says that the program is already bearing fruits given that since its launch, suicide cases are going down.
