LOBAMBA – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has raised alarm over the rising number of suicides in the country, saying the trend has become a national concern that requires urgent attention.
The Prime Minister was speaking during the Senate debate of the 1st Quarter Performance Report for his office on Monday, where he appealed to emaSwati not to lose hope despite life’s pressures.
His remarks followed concerns raised by Senator Chief Ngangabani, who offered condolences to the Prime Minister over the recent suicides of two police officers. Chief Ngangabani questioned what measures government was taking to address the growing number of people dying by suicide.
Responding to the senator, Dlamini said the issue was no longer isolated to the police service, but reflected a broader mental health crisis facing the nation.
“This is now a matter of national concern,” he told the Senate. “We spoke about this extensively last year when we met in Lobamba. I wish to express my condolences to the families of the officers and others who have taken their lives.”
The Prime Minister urged people to speak up and seek help, stressing that no personal challenge should be considered bigger than the value of life.
“No matter the problem you face in life and no matter how embarrassing you feel it is to you, it is not more important than your life,” Dlamini said.
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