In the late 2010s, city lawyer and property developer Deox Tibeingana experienced a dramatic fall from grace.
Once a billionaire commanding the financial and social elite of Kampala, his fortunes crumbled under the weight of debts totaling over shs 2 billion, owed to prominent moneylenders, including tycoon Godfrey Kirumira.
The collapse of his empire led to the loss of Rivonia Suites, his flagship property in Mbuya, and plunged him into a whirlwind of lawsuits, police summons, and relentless bailiffs.
For Tibeingana, the downfall was a humbling experience that stripped him of his law practice, reputation, and financial standing.
In a heartfelt social media post, he detailed how the aftermath of his collapse was nothing short of a nightmare.
“I was expelled from the financial playgrounds and discarded as a write-off,” he lamented.
The public spectacle of his failure was compounded by the betrayal of friends and associates who distanced themselves, turning him into the subject of ridicule.
“People I had dined and wined with became hostile and created imaginary scenarios to tarnish my name,” he shared.
Despite the overwhelming despair, Tibeingana refused to succumb to self-pity. Taking full responsibility for his mistakes, he embarked on a journey of reflection and rebuilding. The lessons he gleaned from his experience underline his resilience.
“Life is cruel, but you gotta dig deep and keep positive. Nobody owes you anything,” he wrote.
With faith in God and unwavering determination, he focused on regaining his financial footing and addressing the liabilities left in the wake of his collapse.
Fast-forward to 2024, Tibeingana is now a man on the rise, showcasing the fruits of his labor with a new skyscraper in Mbuya. The imposing structure, which houses apartments and the CALIAN Restaurant and Bar, is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit.
He credits his recovery to strategic planning and the support of a few loyal individuals who stood by him during his darkest days.
“Out of ten people you help, only two will come to your aid,” he observed, emphasizing the value of genuine relationships.
The CALIAN brand, slated to officially launch in January 2025, marks the culmination of Tibeingana’s efforts to rebuild his empire.
The venture will offer a suite of services, including hotel rooms, a restaurant, meeting lounges, a dance studio, sauna facilities, and a panoramic observation terrace on the ninth floor.
These offerings reflect his ambition to re-enter the financial game while creating cash flow to settle outstanding debts.
Tibeingana acknowledges the catastrophic impact of his downfall on third parties, including creditors and business associates.
However, he remains committed to restoring their trust by systematically addressing his obligations.
“2025 is a year of resolving clients’ issues and thanking God for His mercy,” he declared.
His story is a powerful reminder of the fragility of success and the resilience needed to recover from failure.
From being written off as a financial outcast to reclaiming his position as a property developer, Tibeingana’s journey illustrates the indomitable human spirit.
While critics may question his ability to fulfill his promises, his resolve to rebuild his life and repay his debts is evident.
Deox Tibeingana’s rise from the ashes is more than a personal triumph—it is a testament to perseverance, accountability, and the power of faith in navigating life’s adversities.
