In a heartfelt tribute to the late Ugandan Olympic runner Rebecca Cheptegei, the city of Paris has proposed naming a sports venue after her. The announcement was made by city mayor Anne Hidalgo on Friday and will be further discussed by city officials in October. Cheptegei, who tragically passed away at the age of 33, had suffered severe burns in an attack by her partner and was undergoing treatment at a Kenyan hospital before succumbing to her injuries.

Rebecca Cheptegei had recently participated in the women's marathon at the Paris Olympics, finishing 44th. Moved by her bravery and determined spirit, Mayor Hidalgo expressed the city's commitment to ensuring that Cheptegei's memory remains alive and her story resonates with future generations. Dedicated to promoting the message of equality championed by the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Paris intends to honor the late athlete by naming a sports venue after her.

The tragic circumstances of Cheptegei's death serve as a stark reminder of the persistent issue of gender-based violence. The City Hall issued a statement expressing its support for the family of the late athlete and condemning her murder as a femicide, emphasizing the need to address such acts of violence within society.

According to Trans Nzoia County Police Commander Jeremiah ole Kosiom, Cheptegei's partner, Dickson Ndiema, was identified as the assailant in the horrific attack. Reports suggest that Ndiema poured gasoline on Cheptegei during a disagreement and set her ablaze. He was also injured in the incident and is currently receiving medical treatment at the same hospital.

Tragically, the case of Rebecca Cheptegei is not an isolated incident. Shocking statistics from the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey 2022 reveal that four in ten Kenyan women, or approximately 41% of dating or married women, have experienced physical or sexual violence at the hands of their current or most recent partner.

Mayor Hidalgo, deeply moved by Cheptegei's captivating presence during her time in Paris, highlighted the beauty, strength, and freedom embodied by the late athlete. She emphasized that it was these very qualities that may have threatened the perpetrator, leading to Cheptegei's untimely demise. Hidalgo called for reflection and action in combating gender-based violence and ensuring a safer future for all individuals.

The proposed dedication of a sports venue in Paris to the memory of Rebecca Cheptegei serves as a powerful testament to her indomitable spirit and the unwavering commitment of the city in championing gender equality. As discussions unfold among city officials, the legacy of this remarkable athlete will inspire and empower generations to come, keeping alive the fight against gender-based violence and fostering a society where everyone can live without fear.