

What’s being done to protect vulnerable athletes in Kenya?
7 snips Jan 6, 2025
In this engaging discussion, former Olympic champion Nancy Chebet Lagat, now a coach advocating for athlete welfare, joins Elizabeth Keitany, Athletics Kenya's safeguarding executive. They tackle the alarming issue of gender-based violence faced by female athletes, highlighted by the tragic case of Rebecca Cheptegei. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for protective measures and safeguarding policies, the importance of mentorship, and addressing the exploitation vulnerable young athletes confront in Kenya's sports landscape.
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Tragic Murder of Rebecca Cheptegei
- Rebecca Cheptegei, a Ugandan Olympian, was tragically murdered by her former boyfriend.
- This highlighted the gender-based violence faced by some female athletes.
Other Athlete Tragedies
- Kenyan female athletes Agnes Tirop and Damaris Mutua were also murdered, allegedly by men in their lives.
- Male athletes also faced tragedies, like Kelvin Kiptoum's death, potentially linked to lack of safeguarding.
Faking Injury for Pregnancy
- Nancy Chebet Lagat had to fake an injury to conceal her pregnancy during her athletic career.
- There was a lack of support and understanding for female athletes starting families.