Nairobi, Kenya – Rebecca Cheptegei, a Ugandan Olympic marathoner, succumbed to injuries on Thursday after being set on fire by her boyfriend during a disagreement on Sunday.
Cheptegei suffered burns across 80% of her body and passed away at a hospital in Eldoret, Kenya.
The United Nations has strongly condemned her violent murder, highlighting the alarming issue of gender-based violence (GBV).
According to the UN, every 11 minutes, a woman or girl is killed by an intimate partner or family member worldwide.
“This heinous act is a stark reminder of the pervasive violence against women and girls,” said UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima. “We must collectively condemn and address the culture of male domination and tolerance of violence.”
In tribute to Cheptegei, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo announced plans to name a sports facility in her honor, recognizing her achievements as an athlete and her impact on the community.
Athletes and public figures, including basketball legend Sheryl Swoopes, have expressed their condolences and outrage on social media.
“Rebecca’s legacy will live on through our continued efforts to end GBV,” said Swoopes.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls to action to address GBV.
