Ugandan long-distance running superstar Joshua Cheptegei is turning his success on the track into a lasting investment back home with the construction of the multi-billion-shilling Joscal Hotel in Kapchorwa that has left many shocked and wondering.
The Olympic champion’s ambitious hospitality project, valued at approximately Shs 26 billion, is being financed through his personal career earnings and is expected to become one of the biggest private investments in the Sebei sub-region.
Cheptegei Fulfilling A Childhood Dream
Growing up in the remote village of Kapsewui in Kapchorwa District, Cheptegei says building a landmark project in his hometown has always been one of his greatest ambitions.
“It’s been always a great dream to do something that is so close to my heart, growing up in one of the remotest villages in Uganda,” Cheptegei said in a recent construction update.
“Where one would ask; can something good come out of this place? A child that had ambitions to achieve something. Friends, this baby is taking shape in the scenic magical Kapchorwa.”
Located near the famous Sipi Falls and the slopes of Mount Elgon, the hotel is expected to serve tourists, corporate clients, and athletes who train in the region’s high-altitude environment.
Wife Carol Kamari Leads Construction Project
One of the standout features of the development is the role played by Cheptegei’s wife, Carol Kamari, also known as Carol Yeko Cheptegei.
A professional civil engineer, she is overseeing the project as the lead consultant, resident engineer, and site manager, ensuring the multi-storey development meets modern hospitality standards.
The couple has combined Cheptegei’s vision and financial investment with Carol’s engineering expertise to deliver what is expected to become one of Kapchorwa’s landmark buildings.
Shs 26 Billion Investment Set To Boost Local Economy
Construction of the hotel has been progressing in phases, with the first phase estimated to have cost around Shs 13 billion.
Once completed, the entire project is expected to be worth approximately Shs 26 billion after years of gradual land acquisition that reportedly began in 2017.
The investment is expected to significantly boost tourism and economic activity in eastern Uganda while creating employment opportunities for local residents.
According to project projections, the hotel will create hundreds of jobs during construction and is expected to employ more than 400 people permanently once operational.
The development is also expected to complement Cheptegei’s elite athletics training centre in Teryet by providing accommodation for athletes, visitors, and sports delegations.
Museveni Previously Commissioned The Project
President Yoweri Museveni previously commissioned the hotel site during a tour of the Sebei region, praising Cheptegei for investing his international success back into Uganda.
The President also pledged continued government support for local investors helping to grow Uganda’s tourism and hospitality sector.
As construction continues, Joscal Hotel is steadily rising into one of the tallest and most recognizable buildings in Kapchorwa, symbolizing Cheptegei’s commitment to creating opportunities beyond athletics.
