Grief in Trans Nzoia as teacher found dead in suspected suicide

Grief in Trans Nzoia as teacher found dead in suspected suicide

A hanging rope. [Courtesy]

Grief has gripped Simotwet village in Kitalale Phase 2, Trans Nzoia County after a teacher reportedly committed suicide.

The body of Doris Mukite, a 47-year-old teacher at St. Philip's Tuuyokony Secondary School, was found hanging in her home.

Trans Nzoia West Deputy Police Commander Erick Ng’etich confirmed that no suicide note was recovered, and investigations are ongoing.

"It is unfortunate that we lost a teacher in such circumstances," he stated.

Following her demise, union leaders challenged the government to provide mental health support for teachers.

Eliud Wafula, chairperson of the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), expressed sorrow over the incident.

"Our teachers are battling pressure and burnout. The government must prioritize mental wellness programs," he said.

Mukite's body has been moved to Wamalwa Kijana Referral Hospital mortuary as her family prepares for burial.

The incident highlights the concerning state of mental health among Kenyan teachers, with studies showing significant levels of depression among educators.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reports that mental illnesses account for 13 percent of the country’s disease burden, costing Sh62.2 billion annually due to lost productivity.