Sports for Community Development

Meet the Founder

Born on September 12, 1996, in the high-altitude region of Kapchorwa, Uganda, Joshua Cheptegei is a world-renowned long-distance runner and Olympic champion. His journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of athletics is a testament to resilience and dedication. Cheptegei holds world records in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meters, achievements that have solidified his status as one of the greatest distance runners in history. Through the Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation, he channels his passion for sports into initiatives that promote education, health, and social welfare, aiming to create lasting change in his community and beyond.

About Us

Joshua Cheptegei Development Foundation (JOCDEF) was formed in the Sebei Sub-region in Uganda, where I am from, and is one of the communities that still grapples with challenges of gender-based violence, early marriages, teenage pregnancies, poverty, high levels of school dropouts, female genital mutilation, HIV/AIDS and now the effects of Corona Virus (COVID19). These realizations called for not only collective action but also a strong voice of women and girls to address these deep-rooted challenges that were occasioned by societal injustices and male chauvinism. I started the foundation with a purpose to leverage my leadership role and transform my community into a strong, united and influential partner in development.

Our main agenda is to:

  1. Use sports for community transformation.

  2. Identify and support the new generation of runners.

  3. Promote gender equality and equity.

Vision: A community that enjoys socio-economic development and security.

Mission: To work in synergy with communities, harnessing their full potential to achieve quality and sustainable livelihoods.

The Board & Team Members

  • Cheptegei Joshua Kiprui

    FOUNDER & PRESIDENT

  • Yeko Carol Cheptegei

    GENERAL SECRETARY & CO-DIRECTOR

  • Cherotich Anthony Kuka

    CHAIRMAN BOARD OF DIRECTORS

  • Hon Chemutai Phylis

    VICE CHAIRPERSON

  • Yeko Justine Jims

    BOARD MEMBER - GENDER

  • Njia Benjamin

    BOARD MEMBER - SPORTS

  • Ludivine Berouard

    BOARD MEMBER - INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

  • Allan Chekwech

    BOARD MEMBER - MEDIA

  • John Bwanika

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Mr. Chelangat Louise

    BOARD MEMBER - FINANCE

  • Kiplimo Abraham

    CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER