Authorities in Mponela, Dowa, have confirmed the tragic death of 38-year-old Emmanuel Sikalamwa, a former nurse at Madisi Mission Hospital who is believed to have taken his own life on December 1 at the woodlot of Kamphenga Community Day Secondary School.
Sikalamwa, originally from Chamadenga Village under Senior Chief Kayembe, had recently relocated with his family to Chisepo on November 28 after being dismissed from his nursing position. According to police, he left home two days later, telling family members he was traveling to Kasuntha Trading Centre to visit his mother. He never returned.
His body was discovered by students who had gone to the woodlot for study sessions ahead of their examinations. The incident was immediately reported to authorities.
Officers from Mbingwa Police Unit, accompanied by health officials, visited the scene and confirmed the cause of death as suicide.
Following the incident, Mponela Police Station has urged community members to seek emotional and psychological support during difficult times, noting that help is available through their Victim Support Unit (VSU) for anyone facing distress or personal challenges.
The community remains shaken as investigations continue and relatives prepare to lay Sikalamwa to rest
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