By Eddah Waithaka
In a press conference at the KEMRI conference in Nairobi, experts announced a historic development in Kenya’s mental health policy: the decriminalization of attempted suicide. This landmark decision is expected to significantly reduce stigma and improve support for individuals in crisis.
By declaring Section 226 of the Penal Code unconstitutional, the ruling marks a pivotal shift in the country’s approach to suicide prevention, fostering a more compassionate environment for addressing mental health challenges.
Speaking during the press conference, Dr. Boniface Chitayi, a leading psychiatrist, praised the decision.
He stated, “For years, suicide survivors have faced double punishment—first from their illness and then from the law. This ruling acknowledges that attempted suicide is a cry for help rather than a crime.”
Mental health professionals contend that criminalizing suicide discourages individuals from seeking medical assistance.
Additionally, Dr. Chitayi emphasized the importance of transforming this ruling into tangible change. He called for immediate reforms to free individuals imprisoned under the outdated law and urged the launch of a national awareness campaign focused on mental health.
“Community awareness is essential. We must treat suicide survivors with compassion rather than judgment. It is vital to train religious leaders, teachers, and media professionals on how to address these issues sensitively,” he noted.
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Dr. Christine Njambi of the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) also emphasized that mental illness often plays a crucial role in suicidal behavior.
“Our research shows that many suicide survivors suffer from undiagnosed depression or other mental health conditions. Punishment does not address these underlying issues,” she highlighted.
KEMRI actively conducts studies aimed at improving mental health care, including research on suicide bereavement to support families affected by suicide.
“Losing a loved one to suicide leaves lasting trauma. Our research will guide policies on how to provide proper care for survivors,” Dr. Njambi said.
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