A female soldier with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) was found dead in a suspected suicide case in Kahawa Sukari, Kiambu County.
Authorities confirmed that the body of 24-year-old Precious Mabonga was discovered on April 24, hanging from metal bars in the bathroom of her residence. Mabonga was stationed at Kahawa Barracks and is believed to have died by suicide using a manila rope.
Investigations revealed that this was not her first attempt. On March 25, 2025, she reportedly tried to take her own life at the Kahawa Barracks Military Police Unit. Following that incident, she was admitted to the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital and diagnosed with Recurrent Depressive Disorder.
Officials who visited the scene recovered medication prescribed for the treatment of depression. Her body was later transferred to the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Incidents of suicide among military personnel have been increasing, despite continued efforts by authorities to address the issue. Like police officers, soldiers frequently face extreme stress as they deal with community challenges, work in high-risk environments, and endure difficult conditions.
Experts have linked the rising cases of suicide among security personnel to unaddressed trauma. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), contributing factors may include unemployment, grief, academic stress, financial or legal problems, bullying, a history of mental illness, prior suicide attempts, substance abuse, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
The government has reiterated its commitment to tackling the mental health challenges affecting members of the armed forces.
