The Sebei Sub-region in Eastern Uganda is basking in the global spotlight after Jacob Kiplimo’s stellar performance at the 2025 London Marathon, where the 24-year-old long-distance runner clinched second place in his debut 42km race, setting a national record of 2:03:37.
Hailing from the Sebei Sub-region, which spans Kapchorwa, Kween, and Bukwo districts on the slopes of Mount Elgon, Kiplimo’s achievement has not only elevated Uganda’s pride but also highlighted the untapped potential of the Sebei Sub-region as a premier destination for sports tourism.
The Sebei Sub-region, known for its breathtaking landscapes, mild climate, and rich cultural heritage, has long been a cradle for world-class athletes. Kiplimo joins a lineage of the Sebei Sub-region -born champions, including Joshua Cheptegei, Peruth Chemutai, Moses Kipsiro, and Stephen Kiprotich, all of whom have dominated international long-distance running.
The region’s high-altitude terrain, averaging 1,800 to 3,000 meters above sea level, provides a natural training ground that enhances endurance—a key factor in the success of East African runners. A 2015 study in the Journal of Sports Sciences notes that high-altitude training, like that in the Sebei Sub-region, increases red blood cell count, boosting oxygen delivery to muscles, a phenomenon often described as “legal doping.”
Beyond its athletic pedigree, the Sebei Sub-region offers a wealth of attractions for tourists. The cascading Sipi Falls, scenic hills, and nature trails draw adventurers, while the cultural heritage of the Sabiny people, part of the larger Kalenjin community, provides a deep dive into traditions—though the region has worked to move beyond its past association with female genital mutilation, focusing instead on positive cultural narratives.
The Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation is spearheading efforts to position the Sebei Sub-region as a sports tourism hub, complementing the government’s construction of the High-Altitude Training Center in Teryet, just 10 kilometers from Kapchorwa Town. These initiatives aim to attract global runners and tourists, offering world-class facilities alongside the region’s natural beauty.
Tourism is a cornerstone of Uganda’s economy, contributing over $1.6 billion annually before the pandemic, according to President, H.E Yoweri Museveni. The Sebei Sub-region’s unique blend of sports and tourism could significantly boost this sector.
As highlighted in a National Geographic article (April 22, 2025), sports tourism is a multi-billion-pound industry, with regions leveraging major events and natural assets to drive economic growth. The Sebei Sub-region, with its elite athletes and stunning landscapes, is poised to follow in the footsteps of cities like Barcelona, which saw a 30-year tourism boom after hosting the 1992 Olympics.
As the Sebei Sub-region continues to produce world champions like Kiplimo, the region’s allure as a sports tourism destination grows. With proper investment, the Sebei Sub-region could become a global hub for runners and adventurers alike, blending the thrill of sport with the beauty of nature and culture.
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