Imagine the electrifying energy of a packed stadium, the thrill of watching a beloved athlete poised for greatness, the cheers of adoration filling the air. Now, imagine the lights go out. The excitement turns to confusion, then despair, as the star you came to see never appears. This is the tragic reality for women in sports whose lives and careers have been abruptly extinguished by gender-based violence (GBV).

As the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence conclude today, we remember the women who shattered societal barriers, inspired millions and achieved greatness in sports, sadly they are silenced, their dreams shattered and their lives cut short. Their stories stand as a stark reminder of the work still to be done in ending this pervasive violation of human rights.

Rebecca Cheptegei: Uganda’s Fallen Star

Rebecca Cheptegei was Uganda’s pride, a symbol of resilience and excellence. From earning a team bronze at the 2010 World Cross Country Championships as a teenager to breaking records at the 2022 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships, she represented her nation with distinction. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Rebecca became a beacon of hope.

Behind the accolades, however, Rebecca battled personal struggles, including an abusive relationship. In September 2024, this abusive reality turned fatal. During a property dispute, her estranged partner doused her in petrol and set her on fire. Despite valiant efforts by doctors, Rebecca succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind a grieving family and a legacy that could have been much greater.

Damaris Muthee Mutua: A Talent Gone Too Soon

Kenya mourned another daughter of the soil, Damaris Muthee Mutua, a middle-distance runner who represented both Kenya and Bahrain on the global stage. Damaris had a remarkable career, winning bronze at the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics and silver at the Arab Cross Country Championships in 2022.

Tragically, Damaris’s life was brutally cut short in April 2022. While training with her team in Kapsabet, she disappeared. Days later, her lifeless body was discovered in Iten. Investigations revealed she had been strangled by her Ethiopian partner, Eskinder Hailemaryam Folie, who fled the scene.

Agnes Tirop: A Shining Star Dimmed by Violence

Agnes Tirop, from Nandi County, Kenya, was destined for greatness. By 16, she was already winning international medals, and her career highlights included a record-breaking run in 2021 and two World Championship bronze medals in the 10,000 meters. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she narrowly missed the podium in the 5,000 meters, finishing fourth.

Her life was tragically cut short in October 2021 when her husband, Ibrahim Rotich, stabbed her to death in their home. Agnes was just 25 years old, and the sports world was left reeling from the loss of a true icon.

As We Reflect: A Call to End Gender-Based Violence

As the curtain closes on this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we are left with sobering reflections. Rebecca, Damaris, and Agnes were not just athletes, they were trailblazers, role models, and symbols of hope for women in sports. Their stories expose the dark shadow of gender-based violence that continues to claim lives across the globe.

Their deaths demand action. As a society, we must do more to protect women from violence, amplify their voices, and demand accountability for perpetrators. The sports world must also play its part by implementing policies and creating support systems to safeguard female athletes.

Gender-based violence has no place in any society. These women deserved to shine without fear and to inspire future generations without intimidation. Let their stories fuel our resolve to create a world where every woman can achieve her dreams in safety and dignity.

As we end this global campaign of reflection and action today, let us commit to turning advocacy into tangible change. Let these 16 days be the catalyst for 365 days of relentless effort to end gender-based violence in all its forms, only then can we ensure that no other light is extinguished by the darkness of violence.

Miracle Philip is a Programme Officer at Women Radio 91.7fm