• Beatrice Murugi, a former Kenyan marathon runner who once competed internationally, is now living in a 1,000-shilling rental house in Kerugoya
  • A crippling stomach condition that makes her appear pregnant has left Beatrice unable to pursue athletic work since 2021
  • Philanthropist Mercy Nungari raised the alarm about Beatrice's condition, calling on the Ministry of Sports to intervene

Beatrice Murugi, a former Kenyan marathon runner originally from Nyahururu, is surviving on casual farm work and tea picking in Kirinyaga after a series of misfortunes dismantled everything she had built through sport.

Beatrice's journey into athletics began when an elder from her village recognised her potential and took her to Japan in 2009, where she completed her secondary education before transitioning into professional marathon training.

By 2012, she was competing at a professional level, representing Kenya and earning enough to transform her family's circumstances. She purchased land in Nyahururu, constructed a home for her mother, funded her siblings' education, and bought a lorry intended to generate income long after her running career.

How the Collapse Began

The lorry proved to be her undoing. It was involved in a fatal accident near the Del Monte area, and because the insurance had lapsed and the driver had not informed her before taking the vehicle out, Beatrice received no compensation. Instead, the cost of caring for injured victims fell entirely on her shoulders.

Her physical health then followed. In 2021, she developed a severe stomach bloating condition that makes her abdomen appear as though she is pregnant. Despite ongoing medication, her condition has not improved, leaving her unable to sustain any demanding physical work.

Today, Beatrice lives in a one-room house in a village called Githioro, near Kerugoya, paying a monthly rent of 1,000 shillings. She raises her 10-year-old child alone through whatever casual labour she can find.

Community Steps In as Officials Take Notice

Philanthropist Mercy Nungari brought Beatrice's situation to public attention through a Facebook post on September 9, drawing responses from people in the Kerugoya area who began visiting her. The area Assistant Chief also visited, accompanied by Kerugoya deputy OCS Inspector Mwangi, who reportedly hails from the same Nyahururu area as Beatrice.

According to Nungari's update, Beatrice's child has since returned to school and her medical treatment is expected to begin shortly, thanks to support from well-wishers.

Nungari has appealed directly to the Ministry of Sports and Athletics Kenya to intervene, arguing that athletes who raised the country's flag deserve more than to be forgotten once their competitive years are behind them. Beatrice's contact number, 0705 359618, was shared publicly for anyone wishing to offer assistance.