This archive report was first published on 13 July 2020.
On a fateful Sunday, July 12, 2020, a viral Facebook post from Michael Kihumba, a Kenyan graphics designer, sent shockwaves across the country. The post, which revealed Kihumba's struggles with debt and suicidal thoughts, sparked a wave of concern and compassion among Kenyans.
According to the post, Kihumba was overwhelmed by debt and was ready to give up, but he pleaded with his loved ones to take care of his children. He wrote, 'I have borrowed so much that I am tired. I am sorry about that. Help my children if you can. I'm sorry Dama, Ray, Max in UG and Mwas of Ridge House.'
His phone numbers were shared online, and several concerned citizens tried to reach out to him, sending him messages of encouragement. It was a Twitter user named Essie who eventually managed to calm Kihumba down and discovered that he was also homeless.
Essie, who was commended for her kindness, offered Kihumba her apartment to stay in until he got back on his feet. She also appealed for help in finding him a job in graphic design and branding, highlighting the urgent need for support.
As the situation unfolded, it sparked conversations about suicide and mental health in Kenya. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an average of about 1,408 people commit suicide in Kenya every year. Factors linked to suicides include substance use disorders, financial turmoil, relationship break-ups, and chronic pain and illness.
A clear link also exists between suicide and mental disorders, particularly depression. A WHO report released in 2017 identified Kenya as the African country with the sixth highest levels of depression, with an estimated 1.9 million people diagnosed at the time.
