ILLNESS, LAND DISPUTE LEAVE EX-MARATHONER BEATRICE MURUGI PICKING TEA TO SURVIVE

Former Kenyan marathoner Beatrice Murugi has opened up about the difficult circumstances she has faced since her athletics career was cut short, revealing that illness, financial setbacks and a property dispute have left her struggling to provide for her child.

Murugi, who discovered her talent for running while in primary school, travelled to Japan in 2009 and later pursued athletics professionally. She competed in half-marathons and other races before a tendon injury in 2014 brought her competitive career to an end. 

After leaving professional athletics, Murugi says her health began to deteriorate. She developed persistent abdominal swelling and sought treatment at several health facilities. According to her account reported by Citizen Digital, some of the treatment was expensive, with one facility prescribing injections costing about KSh10,500 each, while other medication reportedly cost as much as KSh30,000. 

The condition has affected her ability to undertake physically demanding work. Murugi has consequently turned to casual jobs, including tea picking, to support herself and her child.

Her financial difficulties were further compounded by problems involving property and investments. In a recent interview, she spoke about a parcel of land she had purchased as an investment and said she wanted the property returned to her so that she could have greater stability for herself and her child. 

Earlier reports also linked her financial struggles to a lorry she had acquired as an investment. The vehicle was reportedly involved in an accident, with reports saying insurance issues left Murugi facing significant financial losses. Details surrounding the incident are based largely on accounts attributed to Murugi and media reports. 

Murugi is also raising a young child while dealing with her health and financial challenges. Reports indicate that she has struggled to meet school and other basic expenses, while relying on casual work and assistance from well-wishers. 

Her plight attracted public attention in September 2026, prompting community members and well-wishers to intervene. She was taken to Kerugoya Level 5 Hospital, where reports said doctors recommended surgery as part of her treatment. 

Despite the challenges, Murugi has expressed hope of rebuilding her life and, if her health improves, returning to athletics. She has appealed for support from Athletics Kenya, government officials, fellow athletes and well-wishers as she seeks medical care and works to secure a more stable future for her child. 

Her story has also renewed discussion around the challenges former athletes can face after leaving professional sport, particularly when illness or financial setbacks affect their ability to earn a living.