Bulawayo faces surge in child suicides

Bulawayo is grappling with a disturbing rise in child suicides, prompting urgent calls from community leaders, civic organisations, and lawmakers for coordinated action to tackle the crisis.

The recent death of a 14-year-old girl from Emakhandeni suburb, who took her life following a confrontation with her sister, has become a tragic symbol of a growing problem. In October last year, 10-year-old Nomvelo Mqhele from Pumula South hanged herself while her two-year-old sibling watched, and last month 21-year-old Thabiso Ndlovu from Cowdray Park died after ingesting rat poison following a reprimand from his mother.

Emakhandeni-Luveve legislator Bajila said child suicides are becoming a serious concern across the city. He cited mental health issues and substance abuse as major contributing factors and suggested that in some cases spiritual challenges may also play a role.

"We have had a serious problem of child suicides in the constituency and Bulawayo as a whole," Bajila said. "While we need more scientific research into the issue, it is safe to speculate that mental health issues and substance abuse are major contributing factors. In some instances, the problems sound spiritual." He called for the implementation of mental health awareness campaigns, substance abuse prevention programs, and spiritual support systems.

Community leaders echoed the call for action. Pastor Josiah Ndlovu of Miracles Apostles Church stressed the vulnerability of children and the need for guidance, mentorship, and practical engagement projects. "Children need to be taught and corrected when they go astray," he said. "Many boys are now abusing drugs, and we are seeing girls falling pregnant at a very young age. We need to act."

Similarly, a senior pastor from Hamba Vangeli Christian Ministries International urged collective responsibility from families, churches, and government institutions. "Suicide is not an option; it has terrible, horrible, harsh consequences. God hates suicide," he said, urging young people struggling with mental health challenges to seek help and counselling.

Nonsikelelo Moyo, founder of the For A Black Girl (FABG) Foundation, highlighted the role of social media and societal pressures in fueling the crisis. Her organisation offers mental health support to youth. "Being constantly exposed to the lives of others can create a deep sense of self-doubt in young people, leading to mental health disorders that often result in suicide," she said.

Civic Society and Churches Joint Forum Regional Coordinator Max Mkandla pointed to parental neglect, domestic abuse, and peer-driven drug use as key drivers behind the surge. "The lack of parents who can look after these children is pushing many of them to suicide," he said. "Some are living in abusive homes without guardians. Drugs have also killed many, and children influence each other into doing harmful things."

Mkandla called for a collaborative approach involving schools, churches, parents, and guardians to organise workshops addressing drug abuse and suicide awareness. "There is serious intervention needed," he said. "We must act collectively to protect our children."