By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Bukwo, Uganda – September 14, 2024
Uganda today will lay to rest Rebecca Cheptegei, the 33-year-old Olympian whose life was tragically cut short by gender-based violence.
Cheptegei died on September 12, 2024, after suffering severe burns when her ex-boyfriend, Dickson Ndiema, doused her with petrol and set her alight in Eldoret, Kenya. Ndiema also succumbed to injuries from the incident.
A somber procession accompanied Cheptegei’s body from Eldoret to her ancestral home in Bukwo, where hundreds gathered to pay their respects.
Mourners, including Uganda’s sports community, government officials, and activists, condemned gender-based violence and called for justice.
Agnes Cheptegei, Rebecca’s mother, remembered her daughter’s kindness and achievements.
“Rebecca’s smile lit up our lives,” Agnes said, fighting back tears.
Joseph Cheptegei, Rebecca’s father, struggled to come to terms with the loss, highlighting the significant impact on their family.
“Rebecca was our breadwinner. Without her, life will be extremely difficult for us,” Joseph said, his voice cracking with emotion.
Uganda’s Minister of Sports, Hamson Obua, pledged support for athletes facing violence and assured assistance to the Cheptegei family.
“We will honor Rebecca’s memory by fighting against gender-based violence and supporting her family in this difficult time,” Obua vowed.
Fellow athletes celebrated Cheptegei’s determination and humility.
“Rebecca inspired us with her passion for sports,” said Winnie Nanyondo.
Rebecca Cheptegei’s legacy will endure.
May she rest in peace.
