Elikem Kotoko reveals suicidal ideation following 2015 flood losses

Elikem Kotoko, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Ghana’s Forestry Commission, has revealed that he twice contemplated suicide following the devastating June 3, 2015, floods in the Circle area of Accra.

Speaking at a Youth Forum, Kotoko shared that the disaster resulted in the loss of approximately $497,000 in business assets when he was 31 years old. He described the experience as feeling as though his world had shattered.

Kotoko used his story to urge young people to build resilience, patience, and discipline when facing severe personal or financial hardships. He advised against making irreversible decisions during temporary periods of struggle and encouraged the protection of mental and emotional wellbeing.