The militarily honored Ugandan athlete who perished following her companion's act of setting her alight.
Military personnel had a significant presence at the funeral due to Cheptegei's position as a sergeant in the Ugandan army, as stated by Brig. Felix Kulayigye, and her deserved "honorary gun salute corresponding to her rank."
A variety of people, including athletes and family members, delivered heartfelt eulogies in the presence of thousands at a sports complex situated in the Bukwo district.
Scheduled for later on the same Saturday, Cheptegei's burial will take place. At the age of 33, she tragically passed away, suffering from 80% burns caused by an assault involving Dickson Ndiema, who doused her home in gasoline in Western Kenya's Trans-Nzoia County on September 3. Ndiema himself suffered 30% burns and consequently passed away due to his injuries.
According to testimony from the local chief, the altercation stemmed from a disagreement over a piece of land purchased by Cheptegei in Kenya.
Her unfortunate demise resulted in widespread shock and reinforced the advocacy for female athlete protection against mistreatment and mistreatment in East Africa.
On Friday, Cheptegei's body was transported back to Uganda under a solemn procession, followed by a walk led by activists in the western Kenyan town of Eldoret to protest against physical harm inflicted upon females in sports.
As the fourth female athlete to perish due to domestic violence in Kenya over recent years, this disturbing trend of gender-based violence has attracted much attention and prompted numerous protests in the country this year.
Ugandan authorities have publicly condemned the attack, seeking justice for Cheptegei. First lady Janet Museveni, also Uganda's minister of education and sports, labeled the incident as "extremely disheartening."
Don Rukare, chairman of Uganda's National Council for Sports, expressed his dismay in a statement, calling the attack a "despicable and senseless act, resulting in the loss of a remarkable athlete."
As per the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, approximately 41% of Kenyan women encounter physical or sexual abuse from their partners.
Since Uganda lacks adequate facilities, many athletes choose to train in Kenya, designated as an athletics powerhouse. The region's best runners often practice together at a high-altitude center in the western part of Kenya.
Cheptegei participated in the women's marathon at the Paris Olympics, coming in 44th place no more than a month before the attack. She had previously represented Uganda in various competition events.
The sports complex served as a gathering place for people to pay their respects and deliver eulogies, showcasing the athlete's widespread impact in the sporting community. Following her tragic death, there have been calls for increased protection and advocacy for female athletes, highlighting the need for change within the sporting world.
