Tragic Death of Ugandan Marathon Runner Highlights Gender-Based Violence

Rebecca Cheptegei, a Ugandan Olympic marathon runner, died from severe burns inflicted by her boyfriend. Her death marks the latest incident of violence against female athletes in Kenya. Both Kenyan and Ugandan authorities condemn the attack and call for stronger measures against gender-based violence.

Rebecca Cheptegei, a Ugandan Olympic marathon runner, tragically passed away on Thursday after being set on fire by her boyfriend in Kenya. Reports indicate that Cheptegei suffered burns covering over 75% of her body, making her the third sportswoman killed in Kenya since October 2021.

'We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei... following a vicious attack by her boyfriend,' said Donald Rukare, president of Uganda Olympics Committee. He condemned violence against women and called for justice for Cheptegei.

Kenyan Sports Minister Kipchumba Murkomen described her death as a loss to the entire region and emphasized the urgency to combat gender-based violence. The incident has drawn attention to the high rates of physical violence faced by Kenyan women, particularly married women, according to recent surveys.

(With inputs from agencies.)