Windhoek: The Hardap Suicide Prevention Task Force hosted a suicide prevention concert, dubbed the 'Hope Concert', in Mariental on Friday evening as part of activities marking World Suicide Prevention Day. Speaking to Nampa at the event, Ministry of Health and Social Services Chief Social Worker Renee von Watzdorf announced that suicide deaths in the region have declined significantly, from 29 in 2023 to five recorded so far this year.
According to Namibia Press Agency, von Watzdorf emphasized the importance of sustained awareness campaigns and community-based suicide prevention initiatives in achieving this decline. "The aim is to raise awareness and share a message of hope in our community. Suicide is preventable. We do not want to lose any lives in our region due to suicide," she stated.
The Hardap Suicide Prevention Task Force, established in June 2023 under the Ministry of Health and Social Services, is a multisectoral initiative that includes representatives from nine ministries, the Namibian Police Force, schools, welfare organizations, and other community stakeholders. Von Watzdorf noted the task force's efforts in conducting awareness programs at schools, workplaces, businesses, and within communities. Orange has been adopted as a symbol of hope and suicide prevention.
A campaign conducted at schools last year provided learners with age-appropriate suicide prevention messages, resulting in more children seeking assistance from social workers. "We are also very grateful to report that we have not lost any lives younger than 20 in our region since last year," von Watzdorf added.
According to von Watzdorf, the number of suicide deaths in Hardap has decreased from 29 in 2023 to 12 in both 2024 and 2025, with only five recorded so far in 2026. She identified contributing factors to suicide, including financial pressures, expectations from families and communities, bullying, and difficulties coping with challenging life circumstances.
Von Watzdorf urged families, schools, and communities to be vigilant about behavioral changes, such as withdrawal from social activities or sudden changes in interests or behavior. The task force plans to continue its awareness activities, including visits to workplaces and roadblocks, and a community walk is planned for October as part of World Mental Health Day activities.
Additionally, von Watzdorf expressed hopes for establishing a dedicated suicide prevention helpline for the Hardap Region, though currently, they rely on Lifeline/Childline Namibia services. She encouraged those experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts to seek assistance from social workers or available helplines.