The recent attack on Ugandan Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei has once again brought attention to the alarming issue of gender-based violence against female athletes in Kenya. The 33-year-old marathon runner, who competed in the Paris Olympics, was brutally attacked by her ex-boyfriend, resulting in severe burns. This tragic incident is just one of many cases of violence against female athletes in the country.
According to reports, about 30 percent of Kenyan women face similar violence, a number that has been on the rise over the past year. This disturbing trend is not limited to high-profile athletes like Cheptegei, but affects women from all walks of life. The rise in cases of gender-based violence underscores the urgent need for action to protect women and hold perpetrators accountable.
As France 24’s Olivia Bizot reports, the issue of gender-based violence against female athletes in Kenya is a serious concern that requires immediate attention. The safety and well-being of women, both on and off the field, must be prioritized to ensure that they can pursue their sports careers without fear of violence.
The tragic attack on Rebecca Cheptegei serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by female athletes in Kenya and the urgent need for measures to address gender-based violence in the country. It is crucial that authorities take decisive action to prevent such incidents and create a safe environment for all women, both in sports and in society at large.
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Video “Kenyan female athletes draw attention to gender-based violence • FRANCE 24 English” was uploaded on 10/22/2024 to Youtube Channel FRANCE 24 English