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South African rapper Riky ‘Ricky’ Makhado was pronounced dead Wednesday morning after an apparent suicide. Riky Rick (34) was a brother, son, and husband who is survived by his wife and two kids.
Rapper Ricky Rick Suffered a Suicide
Riky was, according to close friends, suffering depression after the loss of his father back in 2020. The death of his father hit him hard saying “I lost my father at a time when I needed the help. I lost him at a time when I needed that voice. A lot of people don’t understand that you can never replace the voice of a father.” His pain and depression culminated in suicide by way of hanging.
A Failing Health System in South Africa
Ricky’s death says a lot about the state of mental health facilitation in South Africa. How is it that an individual at the top of society could not get enough help to deal with his mental health issues? South Africa is a country in tatters, especially for the poor and native/black South Africans. The country’s leadership is wanting and something has to change.
Ricky Rick was Legendary
Ricky was one of South Africa’s most successful rappers and came into the limelight back in 2014. He was loved by many and his fans, friends, and family are distraught and in shock. In a statement, his family, the Makhados, confirmed his demise and asked for privacy as they mourn his loss.
Increasing Suicide Rates Among Males Globally
Suicide rates globally are appalling, especially for men and males. The male suicide rate in Kenya, for instance, is almost triple that of women. Men are mostly facing toxic masculinity and gender expectations that expect them to be ‘tough’ and not speak out on their issues. The unfortunate result is an increasing suicide rate among males.
Ricky Rick’s Demise a Devastating Shock
As a fan of Ricky Rick, I am shocked and deeply hurt by his demise. Riky was such a cool kid and a success in a country where making it is very tough. He brought light to a society that is very often in the news for all the wrong reasons.
Ricky Loved his Community
Ricky Rick was also very philanthropic and loved people and helping his community. He was involved in charity and helped bring up upcoming artists, a tell-tale of his kindness. He was always looking to do good for his community and support those on the come-up.
Rest Easy King ❤️
May Ricky’s soul Rest in Eternal Peace and may his memory be a blessing to his family, friends, loved ones, and fans. We send our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. He was a G in every sense of the word and his demise is such a loss for music and the world at large. Rest Easy King.
