On Thursday, September 5, Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, 33, passed away from severe burns inflicted by her boyfriend in a gasoline attack. The incident occurred on September 1st, shortly after she returned home from church in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya. Her boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, allegedly doused her in gasoline during an altercation and set her ablaze. Cheptegei suffered burns over 75 percent of her body and succumbed to her injuries despite efforts by medical staff at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya.
The attack on Cheptegei, who recently competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, has drawn attention to the growing issue of gender-based violence in Kenya. According to a national survey, 34% of women in Kenya have experienced physical violence, with most cases and violence going unreported, prompting public outcry and demands for justice. Uganda’s athletics federation expressed deep sorrow, stating, “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence. As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice.”
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding Cheptegei’s death, which reportedly stemmed from a dispute over land ownership between her and Ndiema. Neighbors reported hearing a quarrel before seeing Ndiema pour gasoline on Cheptegei and ignite it. Ndiema also sustained burns in the incident but is reported to be in stable condition. Kenyan police are continuing their investigation into the attack.
Cheptegei’s death adds to a troubling pattern of violence against female athletes in East Africa. The murder of Kenyan runners Agnes Tirop in 2021 and Damaris Mutua in 2022, both allegedly by their partners, has sparked increased awareness and calls for action against domestic violence. “This is a stark reminder of the urgent need to combat gender-based violence,” said Kenya’s Sports Minister Kipchumba Murkomen.
The loss of Cheptegei, a celebrated athlete who won gold at the 2022 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Thailand, has left a void in the athletic community. Fellow athletes and friends remember her as a generous and supportive individual, deeply committed to her sport and her community. Her death is mourned by many, including British Olympian Eilish McColgan, who condemned the recurring violence against female athletes.
As the investigation continues, Cheptegei’s family and the global athletic community are calling for justice and greater protection for women against domestic violence. Uganda’s Sports Minister Peter Ogwang has stated that arrangements are being made to transport her body back to Uganda for burial.
