Rebecca Cheptegei Buried in Uganda After Tragic Attack

As a member of the Ugandan armed forces, Rebecca Cheptegei received military honors.

Rebecca Cheptegei the Olympic marathon runner tragically set on fire by her former boyfriend was buried in her father’s homestead in eastern Uganda. Soldiers from Uganda’s armed forces carried her coffin and performed a three-volley salute. The horrific attack occurred just under two weeks ago outside her home in north-west Kenya where Cheptegei was training.

The burns that covered over 80% of her body led to her death, which has shocked many and highlighted the severe issue of violence against women in Kenya. Fellow athletes attended Cheptegei’s funeral, many wearing black T-shirts with the message “Say No to Gender-Based Violence.” Kenya’s Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kipchumba Murkomen admitted the government’s and community’s failure to address Cheptegei’s struggles.

The 33-year-old had been in a land dispute with her attacker, Dickson Ndiema. Stella Chesang, a teammate from the Paris Olympics expressed her sorrow, noting the profound impact of Cheptegei’s death on the team. Local leaders held a memorial service draped Cheptegei’s coffin in the Ugandan flag and honored her with a standing ovation. They proposed naming a road and sports venue in her honor.

Rebecca Cheptegei, who finished 44th in the Paris Olympics lived a simple and focused life, inspiring many young athletes. Her death draws attention to the growing violence against women in Kenya where female athletes have increasingly become targets. Recent tragedies include the murders of Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua.

Cheptegei’s legacy will endure through her contributions to athletics and her courage in the face of violence.

Cataleya