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The Eswatini Ministry of Health has reported that one in four learners between the ages of 13 and 17 have seriously considered suicide. The findings were released as the country observed World Suicide Prevention Day 2026, which was held under the theme, Changing the Narrative on Suicide.
Speaking on behalf of Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula, Acting Deputy Director of Public Health Dr. Adman Shabangu stated that the statistics are particularly concerning because more than half of the surveyed students reported having no one to talk to regarding their personal worries. Dr. Shabangu emphasized that suicide remains a leading cause of death among adolescents and young people in the country.
Citing data from the World Health Organization, the Ministry noted that Eswatini has the second-highest suicide rate in the African region, recorded at 31.8 deaths per 10,000 population. Officials identified several contributing factors to this trend, including unemployment, financial hardship, substance abuse, family difficulties, violence, and social isolation.
In response to these challenges, the Ministry of Health has conducted a national situational analysis on suicide and self-harm in collaboration with the World Health Organization and other partners. The results of this analysis are intended to guide the development of a national multisectoral suicide prevention action plan. This strategy aims to move beyond the health sector by involving schools, families, faith-based organizations, and the private sector to create safer environments for mental health discussions.
The government is also working to integrate mental health and suicide prevention services into primary healthcare and community-based settings. Furthermore, the Ministry is engaging with various sectors to implement measures such as reducing access to hazardous pesticides, which officials identified as a common means of suicide in the country.
Dr. Shabangu urged the public to foster open communication and support networks, noting that early identification and timely intervention are critical to preventing further loss of life. The Ministry’s current approach is aligned with the World Health Organization’s Live Life framework, which focuses on promoting life skills, responsible media reporting, and improved follow-up care for individuals at risk.
Article and image source: eswatiniobserver.com
