More than 60 percent of teachers in Kenya are currently struggling with mental distress, driven by economic hardship, social pressure, and a lack of adequate support systems, this is according to research done by the Kenya Women Teachers Association (KEWOTA). In the past three years alone, the research says, over 100 teachers have tragically taken their own lives, highlighting a growing crisis within the education sector.
A significant number of teachers have turned to gambling in a desperate attempt to supplement their modest incomes. Unfortunately, many end up losing more than they gain, deepening their emotional and financial strain.
Speaking in Kolweny, Nyakach Constituency, in Kisumu County, during fun day event, education stakeholders expressed concern over the rising cases of depression and suicide among teachers. Benta Opande, Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Women Teachers Association (KEWOTA), emphasized the urgency of the situation.
“Teachers are not gambling for leisure, they’re doing it out of desperation,” said Opande. “When they lose, it worsens their stress and pushes them further into hopelessness. This is a crisis that demands immediate attention.”
Scourt Jackson, President of the Kisumu Youth Teachers’ Union, called on the government to prioritize mental health support for educators.
“We are witnessing a disturbing trend of suicides among our colleagues,” Jackson stated. “The Ministry of Education must treat this as a national emergency and invest in mental health programs tailored for teachers.”
Jacinter Ndegwa, KEWOTA’s National Treasurer, highlighted the need for financial empowerment and counseling services.
“Teachers are the pillars of our communities, yet they are silently suffering,” Ndegwa noted. “We need structured interventions, financial literacy, emotional support, and safe spaces for teachers to seek help.”
Mercy Ochieng, a teacher and mental health advocate, urged union leaders to expand their focus beyond salary negotiations.
“Unions must advocate for the holistic well-being of teachers,” she said. “We cannot afford to ignore the emotional toll this profession is taking on our educators.”
In light of these challenges, stakeholders are urging teachers’ unions to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Ministry of Education. Their goal is to address the root causes of distress and ensure that teachers receive the protection, support, and dignity they deserve.
Without swift and compassionate intervention, the profession risks losing more lives, and with them, the future of education itself.
