BOTSWANA'S SILENT CRISIS
More than 300 people take their own lives every year in Botswana, a troubling pattern that continues to shake families and communities.
Young men between the ages of 16 and 30 remain the most affected group, with data from the Ministry of Health showing that suicide is far more common among males than females.
Chairperson of the Sunshine Group and former Letlhakane Police Station Commander, Michael Maphephu, believes financial hardship is at the centre of many of these tragedies.
He told The Midweek Sun this week that in most of the cases they come across, there is always a financial struggle involved.
“Young men carry the burden of providing. When they lose jobs, face debt or cannot meet expectations at home, some feel trapped,” he said.
Botswana is listed among countries with high suicide rates in the region. While official figures have fluctuated, recent reports show over 300 suicide deaths annually.
In 2022, 275 verified cases were recorded, down from 307 the previous year. However, health authorities warn that the numbers remain worrying.
According to the Ministry of Health, suicide is now considered a major public health concern, particularly among young males. Socio-economic challenges such as unemployment, debt, substance abuse and relationship problems are often present in reported cases.
Globally, the World Health Organisation estimates that about 700, 000 people die by suicide every year. In Botswana, the pain is felt deeply in villages, towns and cities where families are left searching for answers.
Maphephu’s Sunshine Group, which focuses on tackling social ills, plans to host a community awareness event on 29 February in Letlhakane aimed at addressing issues such as gender-based violence, suicide and financial
distress. The event will bring together social workers, financial advisors and site nurses to speak directly with residents.
“We want people to understand that help is available. Sometimes people suffer in silence because they think they are alone. We want to create a space where they can talk openly,” he explained.
Recent reports from health facilities also point to a rise in suicide attempts, particularly among the youth. In some districts, hospitals have recorded dozens of cases involving young people between the ages of 15 and 25.
Experts say early intervention is critical.
The Ministry of Health notes that mental health services are still limited in many areas, especially for adolescents. Community engagement, awareness campaigns and access to counselling are part of ongoing efforts to respond to the crisis.
Maphephu says conversations about money management should also form part of the solution. “Financial literacy can save lives. When people know how to manage debt and seek advice early, it reduces pressure,” he said.
He added that families and friends should pay attention to warning signs such as withdrawal, sudden mood changes, talking about hopelessness or giving away possessions.