By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Paris will honor Ugandan Olympic runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who tragically died after being set on fire by her ex-boyfriend, by naming a sports venue after her. The 33-year-old athlete, who had competed in the Paris Olympic marathon, succumbed to severe burns following the attack outside her home in Kenya.
Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo praised Cheptegei for her strength and beauty, stating, “Paris will not forget her.” Fellow athlete Joan Chelimo emphasized the need for women to unite in the face of such violence, adding, “We are hoping the perpetrators will be held accountable.”
Cheptegei was a trailblazer, representing Uganda in multiple races and supporting her family with her running career. Her murder is being investigated by Kenyan authorities as part of the broader issue of violence against women in the country. In 2022, at least 34% of Kenyan women reported experiencing physical violence.
Source/Link: BBC News
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