Tragic Death of Ugandan Olympian Highlights Domestic Violence Crisis

Rebecca Cheptegei, a Ugandan marathon runner who competed in the Paris Olympics, was killed after her former partner doused her in petrol and set her on fire. Her former boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, also died from burns sustained during the attack. Her death has raised concerns about domestic violence in Kenya.

The tragic death of Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has cast a harsh light on the issue of domestic violence in Kenya. Cheptegei, who competed at the Paris Olympics, was brutally attacked by her former partner, who doused her in petrol and set her alight. She succumbed to her injuries shortly thereafter.

Her former boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema Marangach, also suffered severe burns during the attack and passed away in a Kenyan hospital. The incident has sparked a conversation about the vulnerability of female athletes in Kenya, who are often targeted by men drawn to their prize money.

Government data reveals that nearly 34% of Kenyan women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence, with married women at higher risk. The death of Cheptegei, the third elite sportswoman killed in Kenya since October 2021, underscores the dire need for more effective measures against domestic violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)