Rebecca Chepte's Funeral Highlights Violence Against Women

Thousands gathered in Bukoo, Uganda, for the funeral of Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Chepte, who was tragically killed by her former partner. Rebecca, a 33-year-old athlete who competed in the recent Paris games, was murdered in a shocking domestic violence incident that involved being set on fire. The ceremony was further dignified by military honors, reflecting her service in the Ugandan Armed Forces. Her death, the third of an athlete related to domestic violence in Kenya over the past three years, has cast a glaring spotlight on the pervasive issue of violence against women in the region, prompting urgent calls for action to address this public emergency. Local counselors have already proposed naming streets and venues in her honor, demonstrating her impact on the community. As athletes donned black shirts bearing the slogan “Say No to Gender-Based Violence,” there was a distinct emphasis on the need for collective action to prevent such tragedies in the future. Experts stress the necessity of engaging all members of society in preventing violence against women through comprehensive approaches, including improving the protection mechanisms and empowering women and girls. Whether through legal reforms or societal norms, the goal remains to ensure that women can live free of fear and violence.