By Richard Mukwenya
In a heartbreaking incident, a 16-year-old girl committed suicide by inhaling a poisonous substance allegedly due to fear of punishment from her parents after she was seen with a man.
The teenager’s actions highlight the pressures and anxieties faced by adolescents as cases of adolescents taking their own lives continue to rise in Zimbabwe, sparking concerns about mental health support and the need for nurturing environments for young people.
The deceased Iris Musakanda from Musakanda Village under Chief Charumbira in Masvingo died upon admission at Masvingo Provincial Hospital after inhaling aluminum phosphide on April 26.
Masvingo Assistant Provincial Police Spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Masauso Patinyu, confirmed the death incident to TellZim News and urged parents and guardians to avoid using violence when disciplining children.
“I confirm a case of sudden death by poisoning that occurred in Masvingo, where 16-year-old Musakanda inhaled aluminum phosphide and died upon admission to the hospital.
“Committing suicide is not a solution. People should seek guidance and counseling before resorting to suicide. Parents and guardians should avoid violence and threats towards young children to help reduce suicide cases,” said Patinyu.
Circumstances are that on April 25 around 5:30 PM, Musakanda was seen by her uncle in the company of a man from the same village. The uncle approached them prompting the man to flee and leaving Musakanda alone.
Concerned about her behavior,Musakanda ‘s uncle went to her home the following day intending to talk to the girl and offer advice.
Fearing possible repercussions from her absent mother, Musakanda reportedly locked herself inside the house and inhaled aluminum phosphide, a toxic chemical commonly used to fumigate maize grain.
Minutes later, she was found in the dining room unable to speak and then collapsed. Alarmed, her sister called for help, and villagers attempted to render first aid before rushing her to Bondolfi Clinic. She was later transferred to Masvingo General Hospital, where she was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Police investigations concluded that no foul play was suspected in the circumstances surrounding her death.
Recently, 14 year old Harare girl committed suicide allegedly after her boyfriend cheated her with another girl.
A form one leaner from Victoria Ranch in Masvingo also killed herself and left a controversial suicide note claiming that she was exhausted from being blamed for causing problems at home and at school.
Another 14 year old from Bulawayo committed suicide by drinking poison after a fallout with her mother who wanted to sell her Acer laptop.
A 10 girl year old from Bulawayo also hanged herself last year though reason for her decision was not established.
