Windhoek has been rocked by the deaths of two teenagers in separate incidents this week. 

Details remain unclear as what may have pushed one of the learners into taking her own life, but the inability to afford basic school stationery may have contributed to one of the
tragedies.

One case involves a 18-year-old daughter of a former senior government official, while in another, a 15-year-old boy was found dead at his family home after reportedly being told that there was no money to buy his school stationery. Both deaths have left families, schools and communities in mourning.

Both died on Wednesday.

Extending his commiserations to former works and transport executive director and Development Bank of Namibia CEO Titus Ndove, following the death of his daughter, Diana Ndove, Works and Transport minister Veikko Nekundi said he was deeply saddened by Diana’s death.

“I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to our former colleague, executive director Titus Ndove, for the loss of his daughter. I wish him strength during this difficult time,” Nekundi said.

Diana was a Grade 12 learner at St George’s Diocesan School. The school also issued a condolence message, describing her as a cherished member of its community.

“St George’s Diocesan School extends its deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Ndove family on the sudden passing of Diana, a Grade 12 student,” the statement read.

The school said Diana had been part of St George’s from pre-primary through to college level and was fondly remembered by teachers, classmates and staff.

“We hold Mr and Mrs Ndove, and Diana’s sisters, Isabella, who is in Grade 8, and Grace, who completed her Grade 13 with us last year, close in our thoughts and prayers during this time of unimaginable sorrow,” the statement said.

The Ndove family confirmed Diana’s passing in a brief announcement issued on Thursday, saying funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.

“It is with profound sadness that we, the Ndove family, announce the untimely passing of our beloved daughter, Diana. Funeral arrangements will be shared in due course. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” the family said.

Meanwhile, the police are also investigating a separate incident involving the death of a 15-year-old boy in Windhoek.

According to an incident report, Vali Valentino Mwashekele was found dead at his family home in Grysblock on Wednesday.

The body was discovered at around 07h00 by his mother, Ulrike Kahuenje.

The report indicated that City of Windhoek paramedics attended the scene and declared the teenager dead at 08h37.

Official information indicates that the boy was found lying on the floor in the shower area of the house.

“A piece of clothing was seen hanging from a metal fitting at the entrance of the shower. It was reported that the mother had cut the clothing in an attempt to save her son, believing he might still be alive,” said the police source.

Further information suggests the boy had earlier been told by his mother that there was no money to buy his school stationery and that he needed to be patient.

Authorities said this is suspected to be a possible contributing factor, although investigations continue.

The body was taken to the mortuary for a post-mortem examination. The next of kin has been informed.

– ljason@nepc.com.na