Bulawayo Man Takes Own Life Amid Economic Hardship

By Emelda Jinya

20 August 2025

A 54-year-old man from Old Magwegwe in Bulawayo has taken his own life, in what police say was linked to poverty and neglect by his children.

The man, identified as Zebron Phiri, was found dead on Sunday morning with a rope around his neck. Police say, before his death, he had confided in a 78-year-old neighbour about his struggles and even hinted that he intended to end his life.

The neighbour discovered his body the next morning after noticing his house was unusually quiet.

Police are urging the public to take all conversations about suicide seriously and to seek professional help when faced with challenges.

Zimbabwe has recorded a worrying rise in male suicides linked to economic pressures, unemployment and mental health stigma.