Mahama camp : the distress of children turns into suicides

SOS Médias Burundi

Mahama, September 18, 2025 – In the last three months, five suicide cases, several involving children, have been recorded in Mahama camp in eastern Rwanda. Most are related to family conflicts, precariousness and the daily uncertainty of refugees.

Two cases involved minors aged 13 and 14 in village 11 (communities 12 and 18). According to a village chief, “both reported that their parents mistreat them, that they are not well fed and that they have had family conflicts”. The two teenagers were rescued in time after ingesting toxic products intended for mice. Transported to the hospital, they regained consciousness.

Unfortunately, Iradukunda Darcy, from village 12, community 2 (gate 2A), did not survive. He hung himself and the rescue arrived too late. “He told his friends that he was going to commit suicide, but the latter thought he was joking. He did not want to suffer any more family conflicts,” a resident said.

Another teenager, Tuyisenge Remy, 17 years old, sustained multiple injuries to his face, throat, abdomen and genitals due to family problems. Rescued in time by neighbors, he was taken to hospital. He explained : “I can’t tolerate my mother’s bad behavior anymore.”

Adult refugees also affected

Recently, a Congolese refugee from the camp also attempted suicide, revealing that psychological distress affects all ages.

Measures to eradicate the scourge

The camp leaders seized the administration and the UNHCR. Several measures have been put in place :

Children in distress must be placed in foster homes run by Save the Children.

The sale of toxic products such as rat poisons is now prohibited to children.

Outlets selling alcoholic or prohibited beverages will be closed.

Awareness and prevention sessions are organized by the authorities and NGOs.

Multiple causes

Camp leaders believe that improving living conditions, especially increasing food rations, would help reduce this scourge. For many, hunger and the uncertainty of tomorrow fuel marital and family conflicts. Other officials say the overcrowding of the camp, which hosts more than 76,000 Burundian and Congolese refugees, exacerbates the situation and psychological distress.