Kakamega, Kenya | By Michael Wandati | A small-scale businesswoman from Kakamega County tragically took her own life on Tuesday, October 1, after reportedly losing Ksh 60,000 in ‘Aviator’ gambling game.
The chief of Kambiri area, while addressing the media, revealed that the woman’s lifeless body was discovered inside her shop in Kakamega town.
A customer, who had interacted with the woman shortly before her death, mentioned that she seemed distressed while attending to her, which raised concern.
“I visited her shop, and she seemed fine at first. We had a good conversation, but as we continued talking, something felt off. Later, I learned that she had taken her own life,” the customer recounted.
Another witness disclosed that the woman had been involved in gambling for a while, frequently placing bets through her phone. It was during one of these sessions that she lost Ksh 60,000.
Rather than seeking support after the loss, she kept her struggles to herself, which might have played a role in her tragic decision.
The area chief called on residents to seek help when facing challenges, stressing the importance of speaking out to avoid similar tragedies.
He also confirmed that police had initiated an investigation, and the body of the deceased had been moved to the mortuary for a postmortem.
“I appeal to all residents of Kambiri to reach out for help when dealing with personal problems. Don’t suffer in silence, speak to your neighbors or seek support,” said the chief.
“While investigations are ongoing, we hope to uncover more details surrounding the incident,” he added.
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In a similar incident just three months ago, a high school teacher from Nyamira County ended his life after reportedly losing a significant but undisclosed amount of money through gambling.
The teacher’s body was discovered hanging in his house after he had missed several classes.
According to a police report, colleagues had attempted to contact him throughout the day, but he remained unreachable.
Mental health experts, including counselors, medics, and psychologists, urge anyone facing emotional distress to seek help. The Kenya Red Cross offers a toll-free hotline, 1199, for those in need of support.
