Namibia is mourning the death of renowned reggae musician Ras Sheehama, who died due to suicide last week.
His death has reignited national conversations around mental health and comes during suicide prevention month, a time observed globally to raise awareness and promote support systems.
The tragedy has prompted creatives, community leaders and health experts to speak out, urging Namibians to confront the stigma around mental health and build stronger networks of support.
‘LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL’
Radio journalist, poet and musician Franklin Newman says the statistics are both staggering and heartbreaking.
“Namibia is ranked as the number one country on the continent as far as suicide is concerned. We do not make light of the fact that suicide is a real issue,” he says.
For Newman, survival often depends on having a reason to keep going. Citing Friedrich Nietzsche, he says: “He who has a way to live can bear almost any how.”
Newman emphasises the importance of community, especially for men, who are often discouraged from speaking openly.
“We build a better nation when we speak. If you are going through a season right now where it almost seems as though there is no reason to live, I would like to assure you that you’re not alone,” he says.
He believes faith provides strength. “When things seem difficult for me, I can rely on the idea that God has a greater plan for me. I might not understand it at the time, but I know eventually it works out for the best,” he says.
Gospel artist Leopold ‘Dee’A’ Vatilifa recalls relying on friends and faith during his own struggles with mental health. “I’ve reached out to people like Top Cheri, Palmster Guy and Franklin. They kept me going with hope,” he says.
For Vatilifa, spirituality remains central. “God is our manufacturer. When we are broken, we should go to him so he can fix us. He’s got you in mind, and it’s not too late. Don’t take your life,” he urges.
He encourages people to embrace available resources, whether counselling, therapy or trusted hobbies. “The one thing you shouldn’t forsake is the gathering of the saints, brothers and sisters who pray for you and encourage you,” he says.
Kwaito star Martin Morocky, known as King Tee Dee, describes Namibia’s suicide rate as alarming.
“It is very disturbing that young people, as young as 15 or 16, are committing suicide. These are our future doctors and engineers, yet they are taking their lives,” he says.
MENTAL HEALTH A NATIONAL CRISIS
He stresses that depression often goes unnoticed until it is too late. “If you feel like you are depressed or going through a lot, it’s very okay to speak to somebody you trust. There are institutions where you can go for free counselling and get the help you need,” he says.
Morocky highlights the example of Namibian politician and prime minister Elijah Ngurare, who has admitted to suicidal thoughts in the past but sought help and recovered. “Look at where he is today. You can do the same. Speak to people who can help you,” he says.
This week, The Namibian reported that social workers are warning of a growing suicide crisis, with financial struggles, unemployment, broken relationships and isolation among the main triggers.
Namibia Social Workers Association president Lovisa Nghipandulwa says: “Suicide is 100% preventable if people open up and seek support. No situation is ever completely hopeless.”
She stresses that talking to a friend, counsellor, social worker or pastor could provide the help needed.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has declared suicide a national crisis, noting that 542 people took their lives between 2023 and 2024. More than 10 new cases were reported in the past month.
Mental health advocate John Steytler says Sheehama’s death shows how people often suffer in silence. “Even those who shine brightest can suffer quietly within. We must make mental health a national priority,” he says.
Some leaders say the erosion of family and community support structures have worsened the crisis.
National Fishing Corporation of Namibia chief executive Alex Gawanab believes the weakening of Ubuntu has left people without a safety net. “Once distress comes, there is no one to run to. We must revive traditional support systems,” he says.
INTERNATIONAL GUIDANCE
Counsellor Joyce Tjizu echoes this, urging people to reach out to trusted friends or community counsellors. “We often do not see signs of people wanting to take their lives and only hear that someone has done so the next day,” she says. Where formal counselling is unavailable, she recommends calling Lifeline/Childline Namibia toll-free on 116.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) says Namibia must implement evidence-based prevention measures. WHO Namibia representative Richard Banda stresses that suicide is preventable.
“The WHO, through its ‘Live Life’ package, recommends effective interventions, such as limiting access to the means for suicide, encouraging responsible media reporting, fostering socio-emotional skills in adolescents, and identifying and supporting anyone affected by suicidal behaviour,” he says.
He adds: “Let’s change the narrative by breaking the stigma around mental health, normalising help-seeking behaviours, and creating a culture of tolerance and care.”
CHURCH RESPONSE
Faith groups are also stepping in. Alliance of Christian Churches in Namibia executive chairperson Dolly Nengushe says many women raising children alone face depression, which can lead to suicide.
She says her church is hosting an economic summit this month to help close gaps between communities and essential services. “We will touch on the economic aspect, but we will also address the issues affecting people today and provide counselling,” she says.
While experts point to systemic issues such as unemployment and poverty, artists and community leaders are united in calling for openness and compassion.
Newman stresses that people must find courage to speak up. “There is no such thing as hopelessness. It’s just seasons. Stand long enough to see the successful outcome of your life,” he says.
Vatilifa agrees, adding that reaching out is not a weakness. “It’s not too late. You can make it,” he says.
