A sombre mood has engulfed the village of Njabini-Kibiru in Nyandarua County after a 9-year-old boy died by suicide in the wee hours of Wednesday, September 27.
Mary Wanjiku, the mother of the deceased, says she was coming from milking her cow when she found his son’s body dangling from a chicken house.
The boy – who was a Grade 5 pupil at Mercy Kid Academy – is said to have hanged himself using a manilla rope which he tied on one of the roof pole.
Confirming the incident, Nyandarua County Police Commander Omar Arero says they have launched investigations into the incident.
The body the deceased was removed to Engineer Hospital mortuary.
“It is sad to see children as young as 9-year olds commit suicide, I urge all parents to keep a close eye on their children as well as all stakeholders to put concerted effort in eradicating the menace,” he said.
Suicide Prevention Month
September marks Suicide Prevention Month – a month to remember the lives lost to suicide, the millions of people who have struggled with suicidal ideation, and acknowledge the individuals, families, and communities that have been impacted.
It is also a time to raise awareness about suicide prevention and share messages of hope.
Nyandarua County has recorded 26 cases of residents that committed suicide this year hence more efforts required in the sensitisation.