A 30-year-old man has died in a suspected suicide at his home in Suasi, Makongo Ward, Zombe–Mwiktika area, Kitui East Constituency.
Confirming the incident to Channel 15 News by phone, Makongo chief Lennox Mulwa said he was alerted by villagers following the harrowing discovery. “I was called by residents after the incident, but I cannot confirm what may have led to the act,” he said. Police have since launched investigations.
Rising cases of suicide in Kenya
The tragedy in Kitui East reflects a wider national concern, with suicide cases increasingly reported across Kenya. According to the World Health Organization and Kenya’s Ministry of Health, an estimated four people die by suicide every day in the country. Experts cite multiple contributing factors including untreated depression, joblessness and economic stress, substance and alcohol abuse, relationship breakdowns, and limited access to mental health care.
Kenya has taken steps to address the crisis, including decriminalizing attempted suicide to reduce stigma, and rolling out a Suicide Prevention Strategy (2021–2026). Still, stigma, underreporting, and limited community-based support remain major barriers.
In Kitui County, access to specialised mental health services remains a challenge. The Kitui County Referral Hospital (Level 5) provides basic mental health support such as counselling and psychosocial services, but demand continues to outweigh available resources.
The county government has in recent years proposed establishing a dedicated psychiatric and trauma centre to respond to the rising number of cases, but progress has been slow. Private counsellors and NGOs offer additional support, though affordability and availability vary across the county.
Health professionals advise families and communities to pay close attention to warning signs such as withdrawal, expressions of hopelessness, increased substance use, or sudden mood shifts. Immediate support, open conversations, and guiding affected individuals to professional care are crucial in prevention.
Community awareness campaigns, youth empowerment, economic support programs, and anti-stigma initiatives have also been highlighted as long-term solutions.
Those struggling with suicidal thoughts are urged to seek immediate help.
Kenya Red Cross Mental Health Hotline: Dial 1199
Befrienders Kenya: +254 722 178 177
In case of emergency, call 999, 112 or 911 or visit the nearest hospital.
