Violence against female athletes in Kenya: a growing crisis

The murder of Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has drawn attention to a disturbing trend of violence against female athletes in Kenya, with at least three elite female athletes killed by male partners or ex-partners since 2021. This alarming situation reflects a broader epidemic of gender-based violence in the country, where nearly two-thirds of female homicide victims are killed by intimate partners. In 2023 alone, Femicide Count Kenya recorded 152 killings, the highest since tracking began in 2018, indicating a growing crisis. The cultural shift in Kenya has seen women, once relegated to traditional roles, emerging as significant breadwinners through athletics. However, this newfound independence has made them vulnerable to predatory individuals posing as coaches or partners. The recent murder of 27-year-old runner Edith Muthoni, who was killed with a machete, further underscores the dangers faced by female athletes. Despite the rising violence, some public figures have perpetuated harmful narratives, blaming victims for their circumstances. Senator Tabitha Mutinda's comments suggesting that young women are killed due to their pursuit of wealth have sparked outrage and highlighted the need for a deeper understanding of the root causes of violence against women. Advocates argue that addressing the issue requires a shift in societal attitudes and a commitment to tackling misogyny and power imbalances. The ongoing crisis calls for urgent action to protect female athletes and all women in Kenya from the pervasive threat of violence.