Tragic Death of Ugandan Olympic Runner Reflects Gender-based Violence Epidemic

Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei tragically died after being set on fire by her boyfriend in Kenya. Her death highlights the prevalent issue of gender-based violence, particularly against female athletes. Authorities from Uganda and Kenya are calling for justice and stronger measures to protect women.

The Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei died on Thursday, four days after being set ablaze by her boyfriend in Kenya. This marks the latest grim incident in a surge of violence against female athletes in the region.

Cheptegei, aged 33, who had competed in the Paris Olympics, sustained burns covering more than 75% of her body during the attack on Sunday, according to reports from Kenyan and Ugandan media. She became the third high-profile sportswoman killed in Kenya since October 2021.

"We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei due to a vicious attack by her boyfriend," stated Donald Rukare, president of the Uganda Olympics Committee, in a post on X. "May her gentle soul rest in peace and we strongly condemn violence against women."

(With inputs from agencies.)