Tragedy at UoN: Third-Year Medicine Student Dies by Suspected Suicide at Campus Pool
The University of Nairobi (UoN) is mourning the tragic loss of one of its brightest students, Dennis Kamunya, a third-year Bachelor of Medicine student, who is believed to have died by suicide at the university’s main campus swimming pool.
Dennis was found lifeless at the bottom of the campus pool in the early hours of Tuesday, April 22. His untimely death has sent shockwaves across the student community and rekindled conversations around mental health struggles within academic institutions.
Initial investigations suggest that the 22-year-old may have been battling depression and substance abuse. In the days leading up to his death, Dennis reportedly posted a series of troubling messages on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), indicating deep emotional distress and suicidal ideation.
His final post on WhatsApp read, “At the bottom of the swimming pool. Apologies for any resulting inconvenience…” An earlier X post hauntingly added: “Even though anxiety/depression/drug addiction kicked my a*s, I still count myself lucky…”
Perhaps most disturbing was a poem he posted on the day of his death:
“At the bottom of the pool. Down where the water is silent and deep, I rest. Where the bubbles and secrets sleep. I didn’t mean to cause a fuss or offense, But better to drown than live forever tense…”
The University of Nairobi Student Association (UNSA) released a heartfelt statement acknowledging Dennis as a “bright and promising student, known for his dedication to his studies, his warmth and his quiet strength.”
UNSA also used the moment to urge students to prioritise mental health and support one another. “As a community of future healthcare providers, we must continue to normalise open conversations about mental well-being, checking in on each other, and seeking help when we need it. No one should have to struggle in silence,” said UNSA President Joseph Kariuki Njogu.
Authorities have stated that students are typically only permitted to access the campus pool in the afternoons, raising further questions about the events surrounding Dennis’s death. Police investigations are underway, and the cause of death will be confirmed following a postmortem examination.
The UoN community continues to mourn as vigils and moments of silence are expected to be held across campuses in Dennis’ memory.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, don’t hesitate to seek help. You are not alone.
In other news:Ministry of Education Unveils Grade 10 Placement Guidelines Ahead of 2026 Transition
Tragedy at UoN: Third-Year Medicine Student Dies by Suspected Suicide at Campus Pool