Bulawayo is coming in terms with a devastating surge in children taking , sparking urgent calls from community leaders, civic organisations, and lawmakers for a collective intervention to address the root causes of the crisis.
The recent death of a 14-year-old girl from Emakhandeni suburb, who died by suicide after a confrontation with her sister, has become a tragic symbol of a broader and alarming trend.
In October last year, 10-year-old Nomvelo Mqhele from Pumula South hanged herself while he two-year-old sibling was watching.
Last month, 21-year-old Thabiso Ndlovu from Cowdray Park died after consuming rat poison. Ndlovu is said to have taken his life after his mother reprimanded him for spilling cooking oil.
Emakhandeni-Luveve legislator, , said cases of children committing suicide had become a cause for concern not just in his constituency, but in the city.
Bajila cited mental health issues and substance abuse as one of the main drivers of suicides among young people.
“We have had a serious problem of child suicides in the constituency and Bulawayo as a whole,” Bajila said.
“While we need more scientific research into the issue, it is safe to speculate that mental health issues and substance abuse are major contributing factors.
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“In some instances, the problems sound spiritual.”
He called for the urgent implementation of mental health awareness campaigns, drug abuse curbs, and spiritual support systems.
Miracles Apostles Church pastor, Josiah Ndlovu, said children were vulnerable, and called for programmes to provide guidance and support.
“Children need to be taught and corrected when they go astray,” he said.
“Many boys are now abusing drugs, and we are seeing girls falling pregnant at a very young age. We need to act.”
He also recommended Bible study sessions and practical projects to engage young people constructively, endorsing the legislator's initiative:
“I think the MP’s initiative will do something positive... Since some parents have given up on them,” he said.
A senior pastor with the Hamba Vangeli Christian Ministries International called for collective action from families, churches, and government institutions.
“Suicide is not an option; it has terrible, horrible, harsh consequences. God hates suicide,” the pastor said, and urged those struggling to seek help and counselling.
“Those contemplating on doing so should open up to someone they can trust and seek counselling.
“Suicide will never be a solution. It brings misery to those left behind.”
The founder of the For A Black Girl (FABG) Foundation, Nonsikelelo Moyo, said the crisis was fueled by social media and societal pressure.
Her foundation offers mental health support to young people.
Moyo explained that constant exposure to curated online lives breeds anxiety, self-doubt, and depression.
“Being constantly exposed to the lives of others can create a deep sense of self-doubt in young people, leading to mental health disorders that often lead to suicide,” she said.
Civic Society and Churches Joint Forum Regional coordinator, Max Mkandla, attributed the spike to parental neglect, domestic abuse, and peer-driven drug use.
“The lack of parents who can look after these children is what is pushing many of them to suicide,” Mkandla noted.
“Some are living in abusive homes without guardians.
“Drugs have also killed many, these children influence each other into doing things that are harmful.”
Mkandla called for a collaborative approach to address the crisis.
“There is serious intervention needed," he noted.
“Schools and churches need to work together to organize workshops where children, parents and guardians are taught about drug abuse and suicide.”
