KNCHR warns Kenya’s suicide crisis may be worse than reported due to lack of national registry

Nairobi, Kenya - The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has warned that the true extent of Kenya's suicide crisis may be significantly higher than previously reported due to the absence of a national suicide registry. The Commission revealed that the Ministry of Health estimates four people die by suicide every day, with a considerable number of unsuccessful attempts reported annually.

Speaking on World Suicide Prevention Day, the Commission emphasized the need for urgent action to address the crisis, calling for open conversations about suicide, challenging stigma and discrimination, and improving access to mental health and psychosocial support. KNCHR linked suicide prevention to constitutional rights such as equality, freedom from discrimination, human dignity, and the highest attainable standard of health.

The Commission highlighted the importance of decriminalising attempted suicide, which was affirmed in a landmark High Court decision in January 2025. Despite policy and legal changes, the Commission noted that many Kenyans still face barriers in accessing appropriate mental health services, particularly at the community level. Vulnerable groups, including young people, survivors of trauma and gender-based violence, people with disabilities, and marginalized communities, were identified as particularly at risk.

The Commission urged the government to establish a comprehensive suicide registration and surveillance system while ensuring privacy, dignity, and confidentiality. It also called for the media to report suicide cases sensitively and accurately, avoiding sensationalism and graphic details.