Tragedy in Kahawa Sukari: Young KDF Soldier Dies by Suicide

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) community is mourning the tragic loss of one of their own following the suspected suicide of a 24-year-old female soldier in Kahawa Sukari, Kiambu County.

Precious Mabonga, based at the Kahawa Barracks, was found dead on April 24 in what authorities believe was a suicide. Her body was discovered hanging from metal bars in her bathroom, a manila rope around her neck.

This heartbreaking incident comes just a month after Mabonga had previously attempted to take her own life on March 25 at the Kahawa Barracks Military Police Unit. At the time, she was admitted to the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital, where she was diagnosed with Recurrent Depressive Disorder.

According to investigators who visited the scene, Mabonga was under treatment for depression. Medication prescribed for her condition was found in her residence, painting a sobering picture of an ongoing mental health battle.

Her body has been taken to the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Mental health challenges among members of the security forces have become a growing concern in Kenya. Like their counterparts in the police service, soldiers are often exposed to high-stress environments, life-threatening duties, and community-based assignments that put tremendous strain on their mental well-being.

Experts warn that trauma, isolation, and lack of sufficient mental health support structures contribute to the increase in suicide cases within the disciplined forces.

According to the World Health Organization, factors that contribute to suicide include depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, bereavement, financial hardship, and previous suicide attempts. Mabonga’s case reflects a troubling pattern that health professionals and government authorities are now racing to address.

The Ministry of Defence and the government have reiterated their commitment to improving mental health support for all members of the armed forces. However, advocates continue to urge for more proactive measures, including accessible counseling, peer support systems, and destigmatizing mental illness within the military ranks.

As the nation mourns this young soldier, her death is a painful reminder of the urgent need to prioritize mental health care in all sectors, especially among those who serve and protect.

In other news:Prime Suspect in Deadly Siaya Arson Attack Arrested in Nairobi

Tragedy in Kahawa Sukari: Young KDF Soldier Dies by Suicide