Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei has died at a Kenyan hospital after sustaining 80% burns to her body following an attack by her partner on Sunday. The 33-year-old Cheptegei had been receiving treatment at the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret city. A spokesperson, Owen Menach, confirmed her death on Thursday.
Cheptegei's death adds to a growing list of female athletes in Kenya who have been victims of violence. The incident is a chilling reminder of the dangers that women athletes face, particularly in the context of intimate relationships.
Attack Details
According to Trans-Nzoia County police commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom, Cheptegei’s partner, Dickson Ndiema, bought a container of petrol, poured it on her and set her on fire. “The couple were heard quarrelling outside their house. During the altercation, the boyfriend was seen pouring a liquid on the woman before burning her,” Kosiom told the Standard newspaper in Kenya. “The suspect was also caught by the fire and sustained serious burns.” Ndiema was being treated at the same hospital as Cheptegei.
Land Dispute
Cheptegei's parents said their daughter bought land in Trans-Nzoia to be near the country’s many athletic training centres. A report filed by the local police chief states that the couple were heard fighting over the land where the house was built before the fire started. The dispute over the land appears to have been a key factor leading to the tragic incident.
Cheptegei's Career
Cheptegei was a prominent athlete who had competed at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Last month, she finished 44th in the marathon at the Olympics. In 2022, she won the mountain race at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Thailand. Her career achievements serve as a reminder of her dedication to the sport.
Condemnation and Call for Justice
Donald Rukare, president of Uganda Olympics Committee, condemned the attack in a post on X: “We have learnt of the sad passing on of our Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei … following a vicious attack by her boyfriend. May her gentle soul rest in peace and we strongly condemn violence against women. This was a cowardly and senseless act that has led to the loss of a great athlete. Her legacy will continue to endure.”
The Uganda Athletics Federation also expressed their grief and called for justice. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest In Peace.”
A Pattern of Violence
Cheptegei’s death is tragically not an isolated incident. In 2023, Ugandan Olympic runner and steeplechaser Benjamin Kiplagat was found dead with stab wounds. In 2022, Kenyan-born Bahraini athlete Damaris Muthee was found dead and a postmortem report stated that she was strangled. In 2021, long distance runner Agnes Tirop was stabbed to death at her home. Her husband, Ibrahim Rotich, was arrested and charged with murder, the case is ongoing.
A Call for Action
These incidents underscore the urgent need for action to address the issue of violence against women athletes in Kenya. The authorities must take swift and decisive steps to ensure the safety and security of women in sport. It is essential to create a safe and supportive environment where female athletes can pursue their dreams without fear of violence. Cheptegei’s death serves as a powerful reminder of the need to prioritize the safety and well-being of women athletes, and to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
A Legacy of Resilience
Rebecca Cheptegei’s life and career were characterized by resilience, determination, and a passion for running. Her achievements on the track will inspire generations of athletes. However, her tragic death also serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges that women athletes face in a world where violence against women remains a persistent threat. Cheptegei's legacy will be remembered for her athletic accomplishments, but also for her unwavering spirit, which serves as a beacon of hope for women who face violence.
