By James Innocent
Medical officials at Yei Civil Hospital have reported 16 cases of suicide in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State, as the community marked World Suicide Prevention Day.
Speaking during the commemoration of the event at Yei Freedom Square, Simon Sebit Musoga urged residents to resist the growing trend of suicide despite the current economic hardship.
He called on families and communities to provide stronger support systems to those in distress.
On the other hand, youth leader, Gaga Frank Osman, noted that most of the recorded cases involved young people, often linked to unemployment and lack of opportunities.
He further warned that drug abuse has become a major contributing factor to the problem.
“The government and partners must step up efforts to address unemployment among youth if we want to reduce suicide cases,” Frank said.
Meanwhile, Ajania Amude, the acting inspector of gender and social welfare, stressed that alcohol misuse is also fuelling the crisis.
“I encouraged young people to seek guidance from counsellors instead of turning to suicide as a solution”, she said.
On his part, Yei Prisons Acting Inspector, Muhammed Hassan Ramadan, said many cases are triggered by underlying personal or social problems.
“There is no smoke without fire,” he remarked, emphasizing the need to tackle root causes.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with health partners, drew hundreds of participants, including government officials, youth representatives, and community leaders.
Stakeholders pledged to strengthen awareness campaigns and mental health support in Yei to prevent further loss of life.