Windhoek: Namibia recorded 966 reported suicide cases over the past two financial years, with adult males accounting for the majority, according to statistics presented by the Namibian Police Force. This was revealed by Major General Elias Mutota, Deputy Inspector-General for Operations, during the official commemoration of World Suicide Prevention Day, in Windhoek on Friday.
According to Namibia Press Agency, during the 2024/25 financial year, 480 suicide cases were reported countrywide. The cases included 405 adult males, 63 adult females, seven juvenile males, and five juvenile females. In 2025/26, reported cases increased to 486, comprising 390 adult males, 83 adult females, nine juvenile males, and four juvenile females.
The Omusati Region recorded the highest number of cases in 2024/25, with 73, followed by Oshikoto with 53. The Oshana and Khomas regions each recorded 50 cases, while Kunene recorded the lowest figure, with seven. In 2025/26, Omusati again recorded the highest number, with 83 cases, followed by Ohangwena with 70 and Khomas with 62. ||Kharas recorded the lowest, with 11 cases.
Mutota said the figures highlighted the need for a coordinated approach involving law enforcement agencies, civil society, health and social service structures, families, schools, workplaces, and communities. He emphasized that police officers have a particular responsibility because they are often among the first responders when people experience crises. Officers must be able to recognize signs of emotional and psychological distress, respond appropriately, and connect people with professional support.
Mutota identified silence and stigma as major barriers to suicide prevention, urging people to create open conversations about mental health and emotional well-being. He also called for greater attention to young people facing pressures including academic performance, unemployment, relationships, family difficulties, bullying, social isolation, substance use, and uncertainty about the future. Warning signs such as withdrawal, persistent hopelessness, extreme mood changes, increased substance use, loss of interest, deteriorating work performance, giving away possessions, and talking about death should not be dismissed.
He urged people experiencing despair to seek support from trusted individuals, counsellors, health professionals, or community leaders, stressing that every life has value.