Authorities are investigating two suspected suicide cases reported in Homa Bay and Kiambu counties, as mental health concerns continue to spark nationwide discussions.
In Homa Bay, a 38-year-old patient identified as Mike Jum was found dead by suicide inside the Homa Bay County Referral Hospital ward on Sunday, May 19.
According to police, the deceased hanged himself using a belt in a hospital toilet where he had been receiving treatment for tuberculosis.
He had been admitted to an isolation unit and was under medical care at the time of the incident.
The hospital’s CEO, Dr. Vincent Oduor, confirmed the incident and stated that Jum had been recovering steadily under treatment. A caretaker discovered the body and immediately alerted hospital management.
Homa Bay Sub-County Police Commander Emmanuel Kiplagat said initial investigations suggest the patient had skipped his TB medication shortly before the incident, although the motive remains unclear.
The body was transferred to the hospital’s morgue, pending a postmortem examination.
Meanwhile, in Ruiru, Kiambu County, police are probing the death of a 25-year-old woman, identified as Wendy Ongayo, in a separate suspected suicide case.
Her body was discovered hanging from a nylon rope tied to a curtain rod in her home on Saturday, May 18.
According to her boyfriend, the two had earlier left their residence, with Wendy heading to a salon while he attended to personal errands. She was later found dead upon return.
Investigations are ongoing in both cases.
Support Is Available
Mental health experts continue to urge Kenyans to speak up and seek help during periods of distress. The government and various organizations offer confidential mental health services, including helplines such as:
📞 1199 – Toll-free mental health and counseling support line (Ministry of Health)
📞 0722 178 177 – Befrienders Kenya
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Help is available.
