Methodist Church Archbishop Joseph Bundala’s (second from left) death highlights the urgent need to address mental health challenges in Tanzania.
Photo: Courtesy
Tanzania Confronts Mental Health Crisis Following Tragic Suicides of Religious Leaders
By Adonis Byemelwa
In the wake of recent tragedies involving the suicides of religious leaders, Tanzania finds itself grappling with profound questions about mental health, societal pressures, and the well-being of its spiritual guides.
These heartbreaking incidents have sparked a poignant dialogue within the nation, shedding light on the vulnerabilities faced by religious figures and the urgent need for compassion and support.
The series of events unfolded tragically, with the suicides of a friar from the Holy Spirit Congregation and Archbishop Joseph Bundala, sending shockwaves throughout the country.
On May 20, 2024, a friar in the Tanga Diocese, Rogassion Massawe, was reported to have taken his own life, leaving behind a message to his mother explaining his struggles and inability to achieve his goals.
Just days earlier, on May 16, 2024, Archbishop Bundala of the Methodist Churches was found deceased in his office in Dodoma, having purportedly hanged himself due to overwhelming debts and the crisis of a private school he had sold.
These tragic events have prompted deep reflections within Tanzanian society, challenging prevailing misconceptions about the invulnerability of religious leaders.
Bishop Benson Bagonza of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) Karagwe Diocese emphasized the importance of acknowledging the humanity of religious leaders, stating, “We live in a society that believes religious leaders have no problems, they have answers to everything, this is not true.
Even they are human beings who sometimes go through difficulties in life, where do they turn for solutions?” This sentiment highlights the need for a shift in societal attitudes towards religious leaders, recognizing that they too face challenges and require support.
Similarly, Sheikh Khamis Mataka, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Muslims in Tanzania (Bakwata), emphasized the importance of providing religious leaders with a safe space to discuss their social issues and seek assistance when needed.
He stated, “The lives of religious leaders have been invaded by the economic system, including globalization. The spiritual capacity is not being built properly, so when a leader of this kind faces a problem, he feels it’s better to keep it to himself, and when humanity overwhelms him, that’s when he takes the wrong step.” Sheikh Mataka’s words underscore the complexities faced by religious leaders in navigating personal challenges within the context of their roles within society.
Mental health professionals have also weighed in on the discussion, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and support for religious leaders facing mental health challenges.
Pascal Kang’iria, a Mental Health Doctor, highlighted the importance of education reaching religious leaders, stating, “Let’s get rid of those old-fashioned ideas that religious leaders have no problems, mental health education should reach everyone to prevent such problems.
There is every reason to learn how to deal with stress and help those who show signs of danger.” Kang’iria’s insights underscore the critical role of education in destigmatizing mental health issues and promoting early intervention and support.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), several signs may indicate a person is contemplating suicide. These include excessive sleeping, withdrawal from others, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, and expressing a lack of importance in living.
Rustika Tembele, Director of the Organization of Tap Elderly Women’s Wisdom for Youth (TEWWY), emphasized the importance of communities offering hope and support to individuals overwhelmed by burdens, stating:
“The lifestyle has changed, people don’t care about others’ problems, they only rejoice while you don’t know the troubles of the person you are happy with, maybe if you were close to them to console them, they would not decide to commit suicide.” Tembele’s words highlight the critical role of community support in preventing suicide and promoting mental well-being.
The recent tragedies involving Archbishop Bundala have sparked a broader conversation about mental health in Tanzania, prompting calls for increased awareness and support services. Enid Bukambu, a researcher at Strength Inspiration, unveiled alarming statistics on suicide rates in the country, emphasizing the urgent need for action.
She stated, “The rise in suicides is alarming and demands immediate attention. We must prioritize mental health awareness and support services to address this crisis.” Bukambu’s research underlines the pressing need for comprehensive mental health initiatives that address the root causes of suicide and provide accessible support to those in need.
Religious leaders and community members alike have emphasized the importance of compassion and understanding toward individuals facing mental health challenges. Archbishop Jafeth Mapogo and Sheikh Mustapha Rajabu have called for solidarity and support, urging society to refrain from stigmatizing mental illness and instead offer empathy and assistance to those in need.
Their words echo a broader sentiment of unity and compassion within Tanzanian society, as communities come together to address the mental health crisis facing the nation.
In response to these tragic events, religious leaders and community members have united in mourning and reflection, recognizing the imperative to prioritize mental health awareness and support services.
Jonathan Mpando, Chairman of Ward 11 in Meriwa, emphasized the importance of seeking support during life’s challenges, stating, “It’s crucial for individuals facing difficulties to seek help rather than resorting to drastic measures.” His words reflect a growing awareness of the importance of early intervention and support in preventing suicide and promoting mental well-being.
Similarly, Steven Magawa, a neighbor, spoke of Archbishop Bundala’s role as a spiritual mentor, expressing sadness over his death and highlighting, “He was a pillar of our community, and his loss leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.”
The impact of Archbishop Bundala’s untimely death reverberates not only within Dodoma but throughout Tanzania, prompting soul-searching and calls for action. The shocking nature of his suicide, driven by financial pressures and personal struggles, underscores the profound challenges faced by religious leaders in navigating the complexities of modern life.
As Tanzania grapples with the aftermath of these tragedies, there is a growing recognition of the need for systemic change and increased support for mental health initiatives. The importance of education, awareness, and community support cannot be overstated in addressing the root causes of suicide and promoting mental well-being.
In the face of adversity, there is hope for a brighter future—one where compassion reigns supreme, and individuals are empowered to seek help without fear of stigma or judgment. Through collective action and solidarity, Tanzania can forge a path toward a society where every soul thrives, and mental health is prioritized as a fundamental aspect of human well-being.
