Joshua Cheptegei: Olympics Champion Splashes Nearly Ksh1 Billion on Massive Investment

Olympic champion and world record holder Joshua Cheptegei is transforming his on-track triumphs into a major investment in his home district of Kapchorwa, funding a Shs26 billion (Ksh943,531,955) hotel entirely from his career earnings.

The ambitious project, one of the largest athlete-led investments in Uganda, was recently commissioned by Uganda President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Cheptegei, one of the world's most celebrated long-distance runners, revealed that the venture is the result of years of disciplined saving from his international competitions.

The hotel, currently under construction along the Kapchorwa-Mbale Highway, is designed to be a landmark establishment, offering world-class hospitality and boosting tourism in the Sebei region.

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"This project is from the savings I have been earning," Cheptegei stated during the commissioning ceremony. "I first bought land in 2017 and added to it gradually. The first phase alone will cost Shs13 billion (Ksh471,765,977)."

He highlighted the immediate economic impact, noting, "Already, over 100 people are working on the project, and once complete, it will create more than 400 jobs."

President Museveni praised the athlete for his prudent financial planning and for choosing to invest in Uganda rather than abroad. "We are going to support him. In principle, we support manufacturers and hoteliers, so we shall support him too. The policy is already there," the President affirmed.

Upon completion, the hotel will boast an impressive array of amenities. These include a 22-level underground parking facility, multiple restaurants, two conference halls each with a capacity for 250 guests, a shopping mall, and extensive wellness facilities such as a sauna, steam bath, and gym. The complex will also feature both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a mini-supermarket, a salon, a barbershop, and a large children's play area.

Cheptegei explained that the investment aligns with his vision to promote local tourism, create sustainable employment, and contribute to national development. He also acknowledged the government's role in fostering an environment where Ugandan athletes can succeed on the global stage.

"We have been able to achieve a lot because of your support, Your Excellency," Cheptegei said, addressing the President. He added that channeling his earnings into long-term ventures is part of a broader strategy to secure the future of Ugandan sports and inspire the next generation of athletes.

This major development follows Cheptegei's recent gold medal victory in the 10,000m at the 2024 Paris Olympics, his second after 5,000m title in Tokyo 2020, three world titles in 10,000m, adding to a career that includes breaking the 10,000m world record in 2020.