By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, 24 December 2025 - The Kenyan Government has raised concern over a worrying rise in suicide cases among men across the country, a trend largely attributed to mental health challenges compounded by substance abuse and domestic pressures.
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said mental illness remains a major contributor to suicide cases, alongside alcoholism, drug abuse and domestic violence.
She spoke during the burial of Mathew Njiru Muchira, a 53-year-old man who died by suicide at his farm in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County.
Muthoni urged families and communities to pay closer attention to behavioural changes among their loved ones and to offer support rather than condemnation.
“Mental illness should not be ignored. Family members must step in early when they notice changes and help those affected to seek assistance,” she said.
The Principal Secretary also raised concern over increasing cases of defilement, rape and theft of farm produce in Gichugu, calling on security agencies to step up patrols and apprehend those involved in criminal activities.
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The clergy in Kirinyaga has joined the call for urgent intervention, urging the government, religious leaders and communities to work together to address the growing crisis among men.
Fr Martin Wanyoike said he has presided over numerous burials of men who have taken their own lives through hanging or poisoning, describing the trend as deeply disturbing.
“We are losing many men to depression, rejection and unresolved personal struggles. There is an urgent need for coordinated interventions to save lives,” Fr Wanyoike said.
He encouraged men to speak openly about the challenges they face and seek help, while urging women to be more considerate within households to help avert such deaths.
Fr Wanyoike noted that fewer women die by suicide compared to men, attributing this to women’s willingness to seek help and confide in friends, unlike men who often suffer in silence.
Meanwhile, Muthoni cautioned residents against consuming uninspected meat during the festive season and urged strict observance of hygiene standards to prevent diseases such as cholera.
