A Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) female soldier was found dead following a suspected suicide incident in Kahawa Sukari, Kiambu County.
Military and police officials said the body of Precious Mabonga, 24, was discovered on April 24, hanging from metal bars in her bathroom.
She was based at the Kahawa Barracks and is believed to have taken her own life by hanging herself with a manila rope tied to the metal bars.
Investigations revealed that Mabonga had previously attempted suicide on March 25, 2025, at the Kahawa Barracks Military Police Unit.
She was admitted to the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital, where she was diagnosed with Recurrent Depressive Disorder.
Teams that visited the scene found medication prescribed for treating depression.
The body was moved to the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Cases of suicide among soldiers have been on the rise, despite efforts by authorities to curb the trend.
Like police officers, soldiers often face immense pressure, handling community problems while working under extremely difficult conditions and putting their lives at risk.
Over the years, a spike in deaths among security officers has been linked to trauma.
The World Health Organization attributes such cases to factors such as joblessness, bereavement, academic pressures, legal and financial challenges, bullying, previous suicide attempts, a family history of suicide, alcoholism, substance abuse, depression, and bipolar disorder.
The government says efforts are ongoing to address the growing mental health crisis among service members.
by CYRUS OMBATI
