Nairobi, Kenya | By Michael Wandati | A tragic incident has occurred at the University of Nairobi (UoN), where the lifeless body of Collins Kiprop Kosgei, a 29-year-old fifth-year medical student, was discovered in his residence on the evening of Monday, September 2. Authorities believe the case to be a possible suicide.
Kosgei was found in his room with his head covered by a nylon bag. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that the bag contained a small gas cylinder, which was fastened around his neck using a shoelace. At the time of the incident, Kosgei was alone in the room.
The discovery was made by his fellow students, who promptly alerted campus security. However, no suicide note was found at the scene, leaving the motive behind his death unclear.
The body has since been transferred to the mortuary, where an autopsy will be conducted as part of the ongoing investigation.
Kilimani police boss Ben Kobia confirmed that the authorities are still trying to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
“It is simply tragic and a team is looking into it,” he said.
Authorities reported four separate suicide incidents on Monday, underscoring a concerning trend that has prompted calls for urgent intervention.
In Nduma village, Wanguru, Kirinyaga County, the body of 51-year-old Danson Robui Kabingu was discovered hanging from a tree, with a rope tied around his neck. Police found no suicide note at the scene, and the motive remains unknown.
In Tala, Matungulu, Machakos County, another tragedy unfolded as Stanley Mutua Kitheka succumbed after ingesting a substance believed to be poison. Despite being rushed to a local hospital, Kitheka passed away while receiving medical attention. The reason behind his actions is yet to be determined.
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In Garissa township’s Hulugho stores area, an unidentified male was found hanging on a verandah, his neck tied with a manila rope. The body was moved to Garissa County Referral Hospital mortuary, where it awaits identification and a postmortem examination. No suicide note was recovered at the scene.
Police have noted a worrying increase in suicide cases across the country, with up to two incidents being reported daily. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), such cases are often linked to factors such as unemployment, bereavement, academic or legal pressures, financial struggles, bullying, and mental health disorders like depression and bipolar disorder.
The WHO identifies suicide as a major global public health concern, ranking among the top 20 leading causes of death worldwide. Kenya is currently ranked 114th out of 175 countries with the highest suicide rates, reflecting the growing urgency of addressing this issue.
