By Debra Rono
As the world observes World Suicide Prevention Day 2024 under the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) joined Kenyans and the world in addressing this pressing issue.
As this year’s theme emphasizes the importance of initiating open and honest conversations about suicide and suicidal behavior, KNCHR call for individuals and the government to engage in dialogue that not only raises awareness but also combats stigma and fosters more responsive support systems.
“The call to action this year is ‘Start the Conversation about suicide and suicidal behavior. This rallying call for an open and candid conversation among individuals, communities, organizations, and the government, goes a long way in raising awareness, fighting stigma and discrimination, and creating better and responsive support systems for individuals in need,” said KNCHR.
The KNCHR, has petitioned the High Court to declare Section 226 of the Penal Code unconstitutional and are awaiting a judgment which is expected on November 21, 2024. This could be pivotal in decriminalizing attempted suicide and shifting the focus from punitive measures to medical care and support.
“The commission therefore calls upon the legislature to decriminalize attempted suicide through the repeal of section 226 of the Penal Code. Individuals who attempt to kill themselves have mental illness and they deserve to be taken for medical care instead of being arrested and charged in court of law,” remarked KNCHR.
The KNCHR acknowledges the critical need for systemic and structural changes, emphasizing a human rights approach to mental health. Recent legislative changes reflect a shift in narrative:
- The Mental Health (Amendment) Act, 2022 recognizes individuals with mental health conditions, including those with suicidal thoughts or behaviors, and guarantees their right to comprehensive and accessible mental health care.
- The Statute Law (Miscellaneous) Amendments Act, 2023 signifies progress by replacing outdated and stigmatizing terms in the Penal Code and Evidence Act with more respectful language referring to individuals with mental disabilities.
According to KNCHR the legislative advancements are supported by national policies such as the Mental Health Investment Case 2021, the Mental Health Action Plan (2021-2025), and the Suicide Prevention Strategy (2021-2026). They underscore the commitment to mental health reform and suicide prevention.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that approximately 703,000 people lose their lives to suicide each year.
Alarmingly, for every death by suicide, about 20 others attempt to end their lives, with many more grappling with severe suicidal thoughts. Among 15-29 year-olds, suicide is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide.
In Kenya, Statistics from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) and the National Police Service (NPS) reveal that between 2017 and 2021, there were 1,576 reported suicide cases.
According to the commission, Kenya remains one of about 20 African countries where attempted suicide is still considered a criminal offense under Penal laws. This outdated approach has not deterred the prevalence of suicide. Instead, it highlights the urgent need for reform.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) calls on the government to improve access to quality mental health services, enhance data collection, and create safe, supportive environments.