Uganda Athletics steps up fight against GBV

Nearly two years after the tragic death of long-distance runner Rebecca Cheptegei, the athletics fraternity in Uganda continues to reflect on the painful lessons left behind by a case that exposed the silent but dangerous reality of domestic violence among athletes.

Cheptegei’s death, which was linked to domestic violence, sent shockwaves through the athletics community, particularly in Sebei (Kapchorwa, Bukwo and Kween) a region celebrated for producing world-class long-distance runners.

For many, the incident was expected to serve as a wake-up call, urging athletes, coaches, and administrators to confront an issue often hidden behind medals, training camps, and international success.

Uganda Athletics (UA) General Secretary Beatrice Ayikoru describes  Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as a complex issue that is difficult to detect unless victims come forward or credible information is received.

“GBV is a complex situation. Unless victims report or open up, it is very hard to know,” Ayikoru said. “SinceCheptegei's incidence, we have not heard of any such cases, and we hope that Rebecca was the last case in athletics.”

Ayikoru noted that the federation has intensified its sensitization efforts, both through large-scale awareness campaigns and targeted engagement with smaller groups considered to be at risk, based on available information and intelligence reports.

She further emphasized that many athletes are now more informed about how to identify and manage cases of abuse, including GBV, a development she believes is a result of sustained education and awareness initiatives within the sport.

In a move aimed at strengthening athlete protection, Ayikoru revealed that Uganda Athletics is currently reviewing its safeguarding policy, with GBV set to become one of its key focus areas.

“One of the major changes will be the inclusion of GBV as a central component of our safeguarding policy,” she said. “The popular version of the policy will also be translated into some local languages to ensure it reaches more athletes and everyone involved in the sport.”

While progress has been made, stakeholders agree that sustained sensitization, trust-building, and policy enforcement remain critical to ensuring that no athlete suffers in silence again.