Police in Lamu are investigating an incident where a Form 3 student died by suicide in Kizuke area in Mpeketoni on Monday.
The body of the 19-year-old was discovered hanging from a tree while still in her full school uniform, a few meters from her home.
The incident was confirmed by Lamu West deputy county commissioner Gabriel Kioni who said they are yet to establish the motive behind the girl’s actions.
He said investigations are however underway while the body lies at the Mpeketoni Subcounty Hospital morgue.
Kioni, however, advised residents to seek help from hospitals, religious and community leaders anytime they are undergoing immense mental issues saying, suicide is never the solution.
Suicide cases in Mpeketoni have been on the rise in recent years with the government official urging people to learn to speak up whenever faced with problems.
“These cases are on the high, especially in Mpeketoni and it's worrying. Let us learn to speak up whenever we are going through something because I believe it can get better when you pour your heart out. Killing yourself never really resolves anything,” Kioni said.
Mpeketoni community leader Kimani Wanyoike called on players in the government and private sector to help address depression and related mental issues among people in the area.
He said cases of young people and men committing suicide in Mpeketoni have been on the rise and said a quick fix is needed.
“It’s like a bad spirit has come into this area and people are committing suicide at the slightest issue. People are depressed and can’t deal with it alone and that’s why we are asking the government and other players to intervene and help,” Wanyoike said.
