Chemoge High Altitude Camp at the brink of remarkable transformation

Nestled amid the scenic landscapes of Kenya, Mount Elgon in Bungoma County has emerged as a cradle of sporting talent, contributing significantly to the nation's sports arena.

This majestic mountain region has played a pivotal role in nurturing and producing an array of talented individuals who have left indelible marks in various sporting disciplines.

The most notable talent from the region is high-flying Malkia Strikers vintage player Mercy Moim who is setting the bar high in volleyball.

This region has consistently demonstrated its ability to nurture and produce exceptional athletes who excel in various track and field events like the late Ben Jipcho, Juma Ndiwa, Shem Kororia, James Kwalia, Innes Chemonges, Leonard Komon, Mangata Ndiwa, Solomon Bushiendich, Levi Matebo and Milka Chemos.

Despite producing world-beating athletes, the region lacks a proper training facility, dragging the talents.

The situation has forced some athletes to train in the neighboring Uganda country.

It worked once... Even twice... Why not the third time?

The camp is near Kenya's border with Uganda. Many Ugandan athletes who compete against Kenyan runners are their Sabaot cousins. They include Olympic 5,000 metres gold medallist Joshua Cheptegei and Commonwealth 10,000m Jacob Kiplimo who hails from Bukwo District in Uganda.

Some athletes from the area have also been forced to train in areas like Kapsabet in Nandi County, Iten, and Kaptagat in Elgeyo Marakwet among other areas.

However, the athletes will have all the reasons to smile after the Chemoge High Altitude Training Camp in Mt Elgon was earmarked for transformation. The camp's strategic location makes it capable of accommodating local, national, and international athletes.

It is among projects initiated between 2013 and 2017 under Governor Ken Lusaka's first tenure. However, when he lost the seat in 2017, construction work at the facility slowed down.

He was elected back in office during the 2022 General Election, reviving his dream to complete the camp.

Plans are underway to furnish the center, ensuring a complete transformation that will set it apart as a distinctive and unparalleled establishment within the country.

On completion, the center will feature a state-of-the-art gym, modern hostels that can host 32 athletes, a cafeteria, four VIP reception rooms, and a guidance and counseling room.

According to the Cabinet Secretary in charge of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Mr Ababu Namwamba, the center will be upgraded under the Kenya Academy of Sports.

"We are upgrading it to a fully-fledged Satellite Academy under the Kenya Academy of Sports," the CS offered.

The facility will also be the only one of its caliber in the Western region.