About the Project

In the serene landscapes of Kapchorwa District, nestled amidst the lush greenery and rolling hills, a beacon of hope emerged – the National High Altitude Training Centre. Beyond its physical presence, this center embodies a profound commitment to human rights and community empowerment, transforming lives in ways that extend far beyond the realms of sports training.

The national altitude training centre is one of the key projects under the National Development Plan (NDP) III by the government of Uganda. In 2023, the National Planning Authority carried out monitoring of all the NDP III projects to acquaint itself with accurate information on the implementation progress of the projects both physical and financial, and the extent of integration of the human rights-based approach. This activity was supported by The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH, GIZ Uganda under the Governance and Civil Society Program.

A Vision for Change

Before the inception of this transformative project, Kapchorwa grappled with multifaceted challenges, ranging from limited access to essential services to constrained opportunities for talent development. The rugged terrain, compounded by inadequate infrastructure, restricted the community’s access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. However, the visionaries behind the National High Altitude Training Centre recognized the potential for change and embarked on a journey to harness the transformative power of sports and education.

A Human Rights-Based Approach

Central to the ethos of the project is a human rights-based approach, ensuring that every step of the implementation process prioritizes the well-being and empowerment of the local community. Approximately 70% of the skilled labor involved in the project hails from the community itself, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the residents. Moreover, stringent accountability measures, including regular audits and parliamentary oversight, uphold the principles of transparency and accountability.

Empowering Lives, Transforming Communities

The impact of the National High Altitude Training Centre transcends mere infrastructure development, touching the lives of residents in profound ways. Improved access to education, healthcare, and clean water has become a reality, laying the foundation for a brighter future. For example, the construction of an 11 km road from Kapchorwa town to the National High Altitude Training Centre, coupled with enhanced agricultural activities, has facilitated economic growth and connectivity to markets.

Building Sustainable Livelihoods

The ripple effects of the project are palpable in every aspect of community life. Families once reliant on subsistence agriculture now have access to stable housing, constructed with modern materials, thanks to compensations awarded during the road construction phase. As a result of the project, Piped water and electricity became a reality for the residents in the area, transforming the landscape of daily living. Moreover, the establishment of the training facility has sparked newfound interest in talent development, empowering aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams on a national stage.

A Beacon of Hope

As tourism flourishes in Kapchorwa, driven by the allure of its natural beauty and sporting prowess, the community is witnessing a renaissance of sorts. Domestic investments in leisure and tourism facilities are on the rise, offering new avenues for economic prosperity and community development. The National High Altitude Training Centre stands not only as a testament to the transformative power of sports but also as a beacon of hope for communities striving for a brighter tomorrow.

In a nutshell, the National High Altitude Training Centre represents more than just a physical structure; it embodies a vision of empowerment, resilience, and human rights. As its impact continues to reverberate throughout Kapchorwa and beyond, it serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together in pursuit of a common goal.