In a shocking incident of domestic violence, Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has suffered severe burns after being set on fire by her ex-boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema Marangach. This incident has reignited discussions about the alarming rates of domestic violence in Kenya, where statistics reveal that a significant number of women experience physical violence.
Cheptegei, who recently competed in the Paris 2024 marathon, finished in 44th place before this horrific event unfolded. Reports indicate that Marangach entered her home in Endebess while she was at church with her children and attacked her with petrol. Neighbors witnessed the incident and alerted emergency services, leading to her hospitalization in critical condition with burns covering 75% of her body.
This tragic event is part of a troubling pattern in Kenya, where athletes have faced violence and even death. High-profile cases include the murders of fellow athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua, highlighting a systemic issue of violence against women, particularly in the realm of sports. The Uganda Athletics Federation has confirmed Cheptegei's hospitalization and stressed the seriousness of her condition.
The ongoing violence against women in Kenya is underscored by a study from the Kenyan Statistics Agency, which found that 34% of women have experienced physical violence since the age of 15, with married women being particularly vulnerable. As the nation grapples with these statistics, the hope remains that Cheptegei can recover from her injuries and return to her passion for running.
