President urges traditional leaders to tackle rising suicide rates

As the world marks World Suicide Prevention Day, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called on traditional leaders to help address the country’s rising suicide cases. Speaking at the 26th Annual Meeting of the Council of Traditional Leaders, she revealed that 542 lives were lost to suicide in 2023/24, with 10 more reported in the past few weeks alone.

In a related development, the Mobile Telecommunications Company (MTC), together with the Ndilimani Cultural Troupe and the Namibia Society of Composers and Authors of Music, held a tribute concert and memorial for the late reggae artist Ras Sheehama at the Zoo Park in Windhoek on 10 September. Ras Sheehama, also known as Hans Sheehama, died by suicide last Friday, 5 September, at his residence in Ludwigsdorf.

Authorities and experts continue to urge anyone struggling with mental health challenges to seek help immediately. Lifeline/Childline Namibia offers free, confidential support 24/7 at +264 61 232 221.