The death of a 33-year-old woman in Kimicha-Rurii village, Kanyekiine ward, has reignited concerns over rising suicide cases in the region. Maureen Wanjiku was found hanging from a mango tree on Friday night after multiple previous suicide attempts.
Her mother, Rose Wambui, recounted the devastating discovery upon returning home from a neighbor’s burial. “I was shocked to find her missing. After searching for over two hours, I found her dangling from a mango tree. I couldn’t believe it and cried until my relatives and neighbors came,” she said.
Family members revealed that this was Wanjiku’s fourth attempt at taking her life. “She first tried to throw herself into the river, then attempted suicide using a charcoal jiko. Another time, she tried hanging herself but was saved in time. This time, unfortunately, she succeeded,” said her aunt, Janet Wanjiku.
The incident has sparked discussions among residents and mental health professionals about the alarming trend of suicides in Kirinyaga County. Many attribute the rise in cases to worsening mental health conditions, economic struggles, and lack of adequate support systems.
Susan Muthoni, a villager, expressed deep concern over the growing number of suicide cases in the area. “The pressure on people’s minds can drive them to take extreme measures. But what we are witnessing in Kirinyaga is alarming,” she noted.
Mental health experts in the region agree. Kamau Muchira, the chairman of counsellors in Kirinyaga County, linked the rising cases to economic hardships, social isolation, and lack of mental health awareness. “Suicides are increasing due to the breakdown in socio-economic safeguards, limited access to empowerment opportunities, and deep-rooted social stigma surrounding mental health,” he stated.
Residents are now calling on local leaders, churches, and mental health organizations to step in and create awareness about mental well-being. Many believe that accessible counseling services and community support initiatives could help address the crisis.
As Wanjiku’s body lies at Kerugoya County Referral Hospital mortuary, her tragic story serves as a wake-up call for urgent mental health interventions. The community hopes that through increased awareness and support, such devastating losses can be prevented in the future.
