TITLE:
Exploring Targeted Interventions for Men Battling Suicidality in the United Republic of Tanzania
AUTHORS:
Godriver Sindayigaya
KEYWORDS:
Male Suicide, Suicidality, Tanzania, Mental Health
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.14 No.10,
October
30,
2026
ABSTRACT: Suicide was reported to be the third leading cause of death among 15 - 29-year-old individuals, in 2021 by the World Health Organisation (WHO). It is a public health crisis affecting Tanzania too. Latest reports show that men die by suicide at a higher ratio than women in Tanzania. Financial problems, relationship and family problems being the top risk factors leading men to suicidality. This is argued to stem from longstanding societal views and cultural expectations, affecting them from childhood to adulthood. This qualitative research was conducted in Tanzania, collecting data from mental health care providers with the experience of treating men battling suicidality. A total of six participants were recruited through two Tanzanian non-government organisations and interviewed in person. The interviews aimed to explore the strengths in current interventions and recommendations for potential areas of improvement. Recommendations from mental health care providers in this research included increase in education and awareness, increase in facilities and centres, more government involvement, developing initiatives targeting men and decriminalisation of suicide attempt. Implementation of targeted interventions will require multidisciplinary action. A collaboration across institutions, the government, local initiatives and non-government organisations. Battling suicidality is a collective measure. Limitations identified in this research can be viewed as opportunities. Tanzania is in a unique position to develop suicide prevention measures that will be contextu-ally, culturally and economically appropriate.