Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has paid tribute to Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, who passed away at 33 due to severe burns caused by open flames.

Cheptegei was receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital when she succumbed to her injuries.

Mr Murkomen eulogised Cheptegei as an outstanding athlete who embodied resilience in representing Uganda and East Africa in the marathon.

He also urged for more decisive action to combat gender-based violence, highlighting the tragedy as a stark reminder of the issue's growing presence, even in elite sports.

"The tragedy is a stark reminder that we must do more to combat gender-based violence in our society, which in recent years has reared its ugly head in elite sporting circles. As a government, we remain committed to supporting justice for Rebecca," the CS said in a statement on Thursday.