A recent study by Health Development Initiative (HDI) has brought to light a deeply troubling reality that 32.5 percent of domestic workers surveyed in the City of Kigali—287 out of 875—reported experiencing suicidal ideation. This revelation underscores an urgent need for improved working conditions and mental health support within this vulnerable workforce. Domestic workers play a crucial, yet often invisible, role in many Rwandan households. Despite their contributions, they continue to face low wages, long hours, job insecurity, and frequent emotional and physical abuse. These difficult working conditions are not only exploitative but also detrimental to their mental health. ALSO READ: Study reveals alarming mental health cases in domestic workers The participants mentioned several risk factors including having a chronic medical condition, working in households with more than five members, being breadwinners for over 5 children and being employed as a domestic worker for an extended period, according to the research. The high prevalence of suicidal thoughts is a red flag that cannot be ignored. It reflects a broader systemic neglect of domestic workers’ rights and well-being. Many live in fear of losing their jobs if they speak up, and most lack access to mental health services, either due to cost, stigma, or the absence of targeted programs. Government institutions, employers, and civil society must work together to improve the conditions under which domestic workers operate. This includes enforcing labor laws, ensuring fair pay, providing days off, and offering accessible, culturally sensitive mental health support. ALSO READ: Break stigma around mental health to build a lifeline There is also a pressing need for public awareness campaigns to de-stigmatize mental health issues and educate employers about the psychological toll of poor treatment. Rwanda has made significant strides in health and social development, but no one should be left behind. Supporting the mental health and rights of domestic workers is not just a moral obligation; it is a vital step towards building a more just and inclusive society.
