Embu County Reports Surge in Suicide Cases, Commissioner Calls for Action

Embu, Kenya – The Embu County Commissioner, Jack Obuo, has expressed alarm over a recent spike in suicide rates in the county, with 15 new cases reported in the last three months. This concerning trend includes five incidents in September, four in October, and six in November.

According to Kenya News Agency, during a security briefing at his office on Wednesday, all the victims were men, suggesting a potential link to challenges in coping with life stresses. Notably, none of the cases involved suicide notes, with the majority of the incidents involving hanging. The commissioner pointed out that these cases were predominantly reported in the Embu East and West Sub-counties and were often connected to family disputes or economic difficulties.

Emphasizing the critical need for community support, Obuo urged society to provide assistance to those in distress. He highlighted the importance of offering emotional and psychological support to prevent further loss of life due to suicide. Additionally, he announced the initiation of a crackdown on illicit alcohol and drugs in the county, citing their contribution to the rise in suicides and criminal activities.

The commissioner confirmed that profiles of individuals involved in the illicit trade had been established, indicating that legal action was imminent. This move is part of broader efforts to address the underlying issues contributing to the increasing suicide cases in Embu County.