The police reported 486 suicide cases across the country during the 2025/2026 government financial year. 

Of these, 390 were men, 83 women, nine boys and four girls.

The statistics were revealed by the Deputy Inspector General for Operations, Elias Mutota, during the commemoration of Suicide Prevention Day in Windhoek.

The commemoration was a joint effort by the security cluster, involving the Namibian Defence Force, Namibia Correctional Services, National Youth Service, Immigration, City Police, NAMRA, and the Khomas Suicide Prevention Task Force.

Mutota says suicide is a tragedy that leaves behind unanswered questions, grief and lasting emotional scars.

The day aims to raise awareness about suicide, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and promote action to prevent it.

The public is reminded to take deliberate steps to refrain from bullying on social media and in the workplace and encouraged to avoid bringing grief to others.

Dr Henry Ndozi-Okia says men should stop hiding their pain and instead express their emotions in a healthy way.

He also reminded officers that their lives are worth protecting, emphasising the need for them to engage in conversations and open up about their struggles.

During the commemoration, candles were lit, representing hope, remembrance and commitment to preventing suicide in the country.