A shocking incident in Kenya has left a Ugandan Olympic runner fighting for her life. Rebecca Cheptegei, known for her incredible endurance, is now enduring a different kind of battle. After a brutal attack by her boyfriend, she suffers from burns covering 75% of her body.
Rebecca, who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics and finished 44th in the marathon, was at her home in Trans Nzoia County when the attack happened. Her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, allegedly bought petrol, poured it over her, and set her on fire during a heated argument. Both Rebecca and Ndiema were burned and are receiving medical care at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret.
Rebecca’s parents revealed that she moved to Trans Nzoia to be near top-notch training facilities, investing in land to be part of the area’s athletic community. But instead of chasing her athletic dreams, she is now in a hospital bed, a victim of unimaginable violence.
Local authorities noted that the couple’s argument was over land ownership, which escalated into this tragic event. Violence against women, particularly Black women, is a disturbing trend. This horrific act against Rebecca echoes other violent incidents against athletes.
In 2023, another Ugandan athlete, Benjamin Kiplagat, was found dead with stab wounds. In 2022, Damaris Muthee, a Kenyan-born athlete competing for Bahrain, was strangled.
These heartbreaking stories raise urgent questions: Why are Black women and athletes targeted with such violence? What measures can be taken to ensure their safety and protection?
UPDATE: Rebecca Cheptegei has passed away after being set on fire by her former boyfriend. The 33-year-old athlete suffered critical burns and fought for her life for days before succumbing to her injuries. The attack happened outside her home in northwest Kenya after she returned from church with her two daughters.
Cheptegei’s father, Joseph Cheptegei, expressed his deep sorrow at the loss of his “very supportive” daughter. Fellow athletes, including James Kirwa, have praised her generosity and support for others in the running community.
In light of this tragedy, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo announced that a sports venue in the city would be named in honor of Cheptegei to ensure her story and legacy endure. Hidalgo recalled how Cheptegei “dazzled” during the Olympic Games and highlighted the message of equality that her life and achievements represent.
Joan Chelimo, a close friend and fellow athlete, expressed her sadness and emphasized the need for women to stand together. She noted that the rising independence and success of female athletes can sometimes intimidate men who cling to traditional norms. Chelimo hopes justice will be served in the wake of this devastating event.
Cheptegei’s tragic death highlights the ongoing struggles female athletes face as they challenge societal expectations. Her memory will live on through her accomplishments, her contributions, and the future sports venue bearing her name.
This incident has sparked a larger conversation around violence against women, especially those breaking traditional norms. We hope her family gets the comfort and justice they deserve.
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