Australian-American Evangelist and motivational speaker, Nick Vujicic, revealed that he received ten letters from Kenyan students indicating they planned to die by suicide.
The preacher stated that he had a talk with students at Ithanga, in Murang'a County, and after their interactions, he learnt that some were depressed and had suicidal thoughts.
He encouraged the minors and noted that he had talked them out of their plans during the mission held on Thursday, June 9, 2022.
"1,000+ students made a commitment to follow Jesus and ten letters were received saying that they planned out their suicide to be next week, but those plans no longer exist and now they have been changed fully from the inside out," Vujicic stated.
He added that his mission in Kenya was successful and remained positive that the minors will not take the step to end their lives.
Vujicic was speaking to 2,000 students in Ithanga, Mutrang'a county where he inspired them to be followers of Christ. He added that over 1,000 students made a commitment to follow Jesus.
"Thank you to the regional minister of education, all the officials and executives who made this possible, Ithanga Secondary School for hosting and K-Crew (Circuit Riders) for allowing us to partner with you on this event," he stated.
There has been a growing concern in Kenya over a shocking rise in the number of suicides in the country, especially among students.
Kenya loses about four lives to suicide every day. Research has it that for every suicide, 135 people are personally affected, which means that in a year, suicide affects up to 6.3 million people.
On Thursday, June 9, a Form Four student took her life at their home in St Mary's estate, Kitale in a suspected case of depression.
Her body was found dangling on a sisal rope at a store in the homestead, with a suicide note beside it. She was dressed in her full school uniform.
The suicide note which was retrieved by police officers read: "Goodbye to my parents, I love you so much. I will end my life on Thursday."
Counsellors, medics, and psychologists advise that you can always reach out for help when experiencing any mental health issues. Call Kenya Red Cross toll-free hotline, 1199 for support.
