By Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
Zim GBC News Editor
BULAWAYO – Community leaders, civic organisations, and lawmakers are calling for urgent collective action to address a devastating spike in suicides among children and teenagers in Bulawayo.
The recent death of a 14-year-old girl from Emakhandeni, who took her own life after a confrontation with her sister, has highlighted a disturbing and growing trend across the city.
This tragedy follows several other heart-wrenching cases. In October last year, 10-year-old Nomvelo Mqhele from Pumula South died by suicide while her two-year-old sibling was present. Last month, 21-year-old Thabiso Ndlovu from Cowdray Park died after ingesting rat poison, reportedly following a reprimand from his mother.
Emakhandeni-Luveve legislator, Collins Discent Bajila (CCC), confirmed that child suicides are an increasing concern not only in his constituency but city-wide.
He identified mental health issues and substance abuse as key drivers.
“We have had a serious problem of child suicides in the constituency and Bulawayo as a whole,” Bajila told Zim GBC News.
“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 urgent rollout of mental health awareness campaigns, stronger measures to curb drug abuse, and the establishment of spiritual support systems for young people.
Echoing the need for intervention, Pastor Josiah Ndlovu of Miracles Apostles Church stated,
“Children are particularly vulnerable,” and called for programmes that provide essential guidance and emotional support, including Bible study and practical projects.
The crisis is further complicated by modern pressures. Nonsikelelo Moyo, founder of the For A Black Girl (FABG) Foundation, which provides mental health support, pointed to the damaging impact of social media.
“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 lead to suicide,” Moyo explained.
Max Mkandla, regional coordinator for the Civic Society and Churches Joint Forum, attributed the spike to parental neglect, domestic abuse, and peer-influenced drug use.
He advocated for a collaborative approach, urging schools and churches to organise workshops to educate children, parents, and guardians on the dangers of drug abuse and the risks of suicide.
A consensus is emerging on the need for a multi-faceted response involving families, churches, government institutions, and community organisations to stem the tide of these tragic deaths.
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