Police in Lodwar are investigating the tragic death of a Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidate, who was found unresponsive on the night of November 19, 2024, at Talent Secondary School.
The student, identified as John Ekalale Ewoyarot, was discovered in a distressing state, foaming at the nose, and receiving assistance from fellow students. Kephas Achiro, a trauma and emergency nurse from Lodwar County Referral Hospital, reported receiving an urgent call from the school administration at 10:45 p.m.
Achiro arrived at the school with an ambulance and medical team, but despite their efforts, the student was pronounced dead upon examination. A police statement noted that initial investigations revealed no evidence of foul play or a suicide note at the scene.
The body was moved to Lodwar County Referral Hospital morgue, where an autopsy will be conducted to establish the cause of death. Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Rising Concerns Over Suicides Across Counties
The death of the KCSE candidate comes amidst a troubling wave of reported suicides in other counties, highlighting the urgent need to address mental health issues.
Baringo County
In Baringo, the lifeless body of 50-year-old Joseph Gitau Ngugi was found near his homestead on the evening of November 19. The incident was reported by Ngambo Sublocation Assistant Chief Lydia Lentele at 8 p.m.
Gitau’s body was discovered lying by the roadside, with no visible injuries apart from white foam oozing from his mouth. Forensic experts processed the scene before transferring the body to Baringo County Referral Hospital mortuary for further examination.
Homa Bay County
A suspected suicide case in Homa Bay shocked the Ogandi village community. The body of 43-year-old Agutu Okello was discovered hanging from a tree outside his house by his wife, Caroline Akinyi Agutu, early on November 19.
Police officers confirmed the incident and transferred the body to Homa Bay County Referral Hospital morgue for a postmortem. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the factors leading to the incident.
Nyamira County
In Kebirigo Sublocation, Nyamira County, 31-year-old Erick Orina Ojwang was found dead in his home in another suspected suicide case. The area assistant chief, Jackline Obwari, reported the discovery at 9 a.m. on November 19.
Ojwang’s body was found hanging from the roof truss of his sitting room with a sisal rope around his neck. Authorities also recovered a suicide note from a table in the house. The body was moved to Ibara Hospital mortuary pending an autopsy.
The Call for Action
The series of tragedies across Lodwar, Baringo, Homa Bay, and Nyamira counties underscores an urgent need to address the rising cases of unexplained deaths and suicides. Experts point to the growing importance of mental health awareness, crisis intervention, and community support systems to prevent further loss of life.
Authorities are actively investigating all cases to establish the underlying causes and ensure justice where applicable. Meanwhile, stakeholders, including schools, healthcare providers, and community leaders, are being urged to strengthen efforts in identifying and supporting individuals at risk.
As the nation mourns the loss of promising young lives and valued community members, these incidents serve as a grim reminder of the need for collective action to combat mental health challenges.
Support networks and helplines are being emphasized as critical resources for those experiencing distress. Initiatives to promote mental well-being and suicide prevention strategies are essential in addressing these alarming trends.
For those in need of help, mental health professionals encourage individuals to reach out to family, friends, or available crisis lines, ensuring that no one faces their struggles alone.
