Decriminalizing suicide in Kenya

The ongoing push for mental health in Kenya gained significant momentum after the landmark ruling by the High Court of Kenya which declared Section 226 of the Penal Code unconstitutional, as it violates the right to protection of human dignity and the right to the highest attainable standard of health, which includes right to mental health.

There are 700,000 suicide deaths reported per year globally and 14 million reports of attempted suicide. Closer home, Kenya reports an average of 4 deaths per day from suicide and an average of 470 cases of attempted suicide reported to the police. The real numbers are likely much higher due to underreporting.

In her address to the media, KEMRI’s Research scientist Ms. Christine Njambi, stated that the Institute is actively conducting research studies aimed to improve the populace’s mental health care, including research on the mental health status of family members bereaved due to suicide. “Bereavement through suicide leaves families with untold trauma, our research will provide policies to guide how to offer proper care to the survivors,” said Ms. Njambi.

The President of the Kenya Psychiatric Association Dr. Bonface Chitayi, delivered a compelling presentation on ‘Justification for decriminalizing attempted suicide in Kenya and the next steps,’ in the just concluded KEMRI’s 15th KASH Conference.

Dr. Chitayi pointed out the tragic reality that fear of prosecution drives many people away from seeking help. Families, already struggling with the stigma of mental illness, often remain silent rather than risk their loved ones being treated as criminals. ” The decriminalization of attempted suicide is not an endorsement of suicidal behavior but rather a strategic approach to prevent suicidal deaths by removing barriers that deter individuals from seeking help,” he emphasized.

Dr. Chitayi, disclosed that the next steps now is turning the ruling into real change. There should be reforms to release those jailed for attempted suicide as it happened under the old law that criminalized suicide. “Survivors of suicide should be treated with compassion, and not judgement and leaders including those in the church, teachers and media professionals should be trained on how to handle suicide as it is a sensitive matter,” he appealed.

Moving forward Dr. Chitayi stated that their association recommend that ;Government at various levels to implement the National Suicide Prevention Strategy to ensure effective interventions, Invest in Mental Health Services through capacity building of not only the facilities but also of human resources for mental health to provide adequate support, Repeal Outdated Penal Code Provisions that criminalize attempted suicide to align laws with the High Court’s ruling, Communities to foster supportive environments that encourage open discussions about mental health, reducing stigma and promoting awareness about suicide prevention and for Individuals to seek help from mental health professionals if experiencing suicidal thoughts.