Four days after his tragic passing, the family of comedian Ebenhaezer Dibakwane officially broke their silence, confirming the heartbreaking news in a statement released on Tuesday.
In the statement, the family revealed the heartbreaking news that Dibakwane's passing was due to suicide.
“It is with heavy hearts that we have to come to terms with the tragic death of our beloved Ebenhaezer ‘Ebby’ Dibakwane, who passed away on Friday, 7 March, at the age of 31.
“The past few days have been excruciating for us as we battle to deal with his loss. Preliminary evidence suggests that Ebby died by suicide, which we expect will be confirmed by the post-mortem examination.”
The family shared that Dibakwane had been battling depression for years, and his tragic passing serves as a reminder for people to look out for one another while prioritising mental health.
“Poignantly, Ebby was well-known for the talent of making people laugh, and yet he struggled with depression for a number of years. While his passing is devastating for us and for many who loved him, it is our prayer that this tragedy may remind all of us of the need to look out for each other while taking care of our mental health, including seeking professional help where necessary,” the family said.
The family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from the public and announced that a memorial service will be held at the Bioscope in Johannesburg on Wednesday, March 12.
“We would like to thank all Ebby’s friends and colleagues who are organising various events to honour and remember him, including the celebration of his life, taking place at the Bioscope in Johannesburg, on Wednesday, 12 March.”
The funeral is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 14, at 7 a.m. at Church Unlimited in Mbombela, Nelspruit.
Many celebrities and fans took to social media to pay their tributes to Dibakwane and also highlight the importance of mental health.
@BhovuRbay said, “The brother did mention that he was sad and depressed most of the time. We don't listen enough to people asking for help. We just brush it off as if they are seeking nothing but attention. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
“I used to not understand people who committed suicide. But after my life experience in 2021 - Being suicidal and all, with 3 different attempts - I have more empathy now. The darkness that comes with being in a state of suicide is deep & sometimes, you kinda need a God encounter to come out of it. I shed light on this through my blogs on Medium,” said @kgotsohopelekau.
“Mental health in South Africa is often overlooked, with stigma surrounding mental health issues preventing many from seeking help. Resources and support systems are limited, making it harder for individuals to access the care they need. Mental health is still not prioritised as much as physical health, leading to a lack of understanding and empathy in society. “Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.” – Noelle Scaggs,” said @DerNqabenhle.
“Signs are always there, and we choose to ignore them. This was a cry for help please my fellow mense reach out to @TheSADAG any time of day just remember that you are not alone,” said @gugumanzini.
"This is so heartbreaking. Our coping skills are not the same. What others see as “minor” problems is big to others. Men are scared to express their emotions because they get judged. May his soul rest in peace," @Sportsbabe96940
IOL previously reported that Cassey Chambers, SADAG operations director, stated that men are five times more likely to die by suicide than women, often due to using more aggressive methods. She added, 'While women are more frequently diagnosed with depression, men often don't speak about their feelings until it's too late.'
Chambers also emphasised that, regardless of gender, 'every suicide attempt or mention should be taken seriously – 75% of people who commit suicide tell someone first.'
Here’s a list of South African artists we’ve tragically lost to suicide over the recent years, shedding light on their contributions and the importance of mental health awareness:
HHP (Jabulani Tsambo)
Ricky Rick (Rikhado Makhado)
Ceagan Arendse
Gunmen Jabu (Christopher Hubheka)
Siyabonga Zubane
Tumi Tladi
Shoki mokgapa
Nichume Siwundla
Patrick Shai
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, please reach out to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group at 0800 567 567 for support.
The Star