Residents of Londiani town in Kericho County are reeling from grief after a 15-year-old schoolgirl died by suicide, reportedly after learning she had contracted HIV from her boyfriend.
The deceased, identified as Mary Chepkemoi, was a Form Two student at a local secondary school. According to her family, she was found dead in her bedroom, seated on a chair, in what they described as a heartbreaking and unexpected tragedy.
Her mother, overwhelmed by tears, said she could not comprehend her daughter’s sudden decision. “She was a quiet and respectful child. I never suspected she was in any relationship. I find it hard to believe she ended her life over HIV as the note suggests,” she said.
Police in Londiani confirmed the incident, stating that a handwritten note was recovered from Mary’s room. In the message, she explained that she could not bear the thought of living on daily medication and instead wanted to “continue her life in another world.” While investigations are ongoing, the family insists that there could be deeper struggles behind her actions.
The body was moved to Londiani Sub-County Hospital mortuary, where a postmortem will be conducted. Meanwhile, the tragedy has sparked fresh conversations about the emotional challenges teenagers face, often in silence.
Londiani OCS, Mr. Ruto, urged students to prioritize education and avoid risky relationships. “There is time for everything. Children should invest their energy in school and let relationships wait until the right time,” he said. Community leaders and counselors echoed the call, stressing the urgent need to address mental health and provide safe spaces for young people to share their challenges without fear of stigma or judgment.
The incident has left Londiani deeply shaken, with residents expressing concern over the growing number of young people grappling with emotional and health-related struggles alone.
