By Our Correspondent
Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has raised concern over a growing number of suicide deaths among men across the country, linking the trend largely to untreated mental illness.
Speaking in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, during the burial of 53-year-old Mathew Njiru Muchira, Muthoni said mental health challenges remain a major but often ignored factor behind suicide cases. She noted that alcohol abuse, drug use and domestic violence also contribute to the problem.
She urged families and communities to pay attention to behavioural changes among their loved ones and offer support instead of condemnation. According to Muthoni, early intervention can help prevent loss of life.
The Catholic Church in Kirinyaga also called for urgent action, urging the government, religious leaders and communities to work together to address the crisis affecting men.
Father Martin Wanyoike, the priest in charge of Difathas Parish, said the number of men taking their own lives in the area is alarming. He said many of the men struggle silently with depression, rejection and personal challenges but fail to seek help.
Wanyoike called for coordinated intervention programmes to encourage men to speak openly about their struggles. He also appealed to families and partners to be more understanding and supportive at home to help avert such deaths.
The priest observed that fewer women die by suicide compared to men, noting that women are more likely to seek help and talk to friends, while many men suffer in silence.
During the same event, Muthoni also raised concern over rising cases of defilement, rape and theft of farm produce in Gichugu, calling on security agencies to strengthen patrols and arrest those involved.
She further cautioned residents against consuming uninspected meat during the festive season and urged them to observe proper hygiene to prevent diseases such as cholera.