UGANDAN ATHLETE’S BRUTAL DEATH STIRS FEMICIDE WARNINGS

There have been widespread calls for justice after the killing of Ugandan athlete Rebecca Cheptegei.

She was reportedly set on fire by her ex-boyfriend in her Kenyan home on Sunday and later died from her injuries.

Her father has demanded the 'murderer' is charged and the case has again raised concern over femicide in Kenya.

Two other female athletes have been killed by intimate partner violence in the county since 2021. According to Africa Data Hub, there have been over 500 reported femicide cases between 2016 and 2023.

In a post on X, Uganda’s athletics federation said, ‘we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest In Peace.’

The United Nations also made a statement, warning gender-based violence is one of the most prevalent human rights violations in the world.

Global tributes continue to pour in for Rebecca. Paris mayor, Anne Hidalgo, says the French capital will name a sports venue in her honour.