Thousands mourn slain athlete Rebecca Cheptegei

Thousands of people gathered at Amanang playground in Bukwo district to mourn the late long-distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Kenyan government, where Cheptegei was killed, and Ugandan government officials led by the State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang.

Officials from the National Council of Sports, led by Chairperson Ambrose Tashobye, Uganda Athletics Federation officials, and athletes from both Uganda and Kenya were also present.

Cheptegei's body arrived at Amanang Playground at noon, amidst a sea of mourners eager to pay their final respects and honor her for representing Uganda on the global stage.

Cheptegei tragically died on Thursday, September 5, after her alleged partner, Dickson Ndiema, doused her with petrol and set her ablaze.

Rebecca Cheptegei’s death has left a profound void in both the Ugandan and Kenyan athletics communities.

Her contributions to the sport and her representation of Uganda on the international stage will be remembered for years to come.

As mourners paid their final respects, many called for justice and greater protection for women facing domestic violence, ensuring that Cheptegei’s tragic passing serves as a reminder of the need to safeguard vulnerable individuals.

Her legacy, both in athletics and as a symbol of resilience, will live on.