By Joseph Kiggundu
A total of $1.9 million (about Shs6.8 billion) has been raised to support Rotary Foundation projects during the visit of Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo in Kampala .
This was done during a prestigious Rotary Foundation Recognition Dinner on Friday.
The dinner brought together Rotarians, Rotaractors, partners and distinguished guests to celebrate outstanding contributions to The Rotary Foundation (TRF), Rotary’s primary vehicle for funding sustainable, life-changing projects across the world.
Presiding over the recognition ceremony, Arezzo honoured a wide range of contributors, from first-time Paul Harris Fellows to Rotarians who have attained various levels of Major Donor recognition, reflecting a strong and growing culture of giving within Uganda.
In his remarks, Arezzo applauded the commitment of Ugandan Rotarians, emphasizing the importance of sustained giving in driving Rotary’s global impact.
“Every contribution to The Rotary Foundation is an investment in humanity. It is through your generosity that Rotary continues to save lives, promote peace, and transform communities,” he noted.
A defining highlight of the evening was the formal presentation of district contributions to The Rotary Foundation by the District Governors.
District Governor Geofrey Martin Kitakule of Rotary District 9213 announced a contribution of $900,000, while District Governor Christine Kyeyune Kawooya of Rotary District 9214 presented a historic and record-breaking $1 million contribution.
The combined $1.9 million represents one of the strongest collective showings of philanthropic commitment in the region and underscores Uganda’s growing leadership in Rotary giving across Africa.
The event was further graced by the presence of Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of Buganda, whose attendance added national significance to the evening and highlighted the alignment between Rotary’s work and broader societal leadership.
Also in attendance were key Rotary leaders including Emmanuel Katongole, Rotary International Director-Elect; Francis Tusubira, Rotary Foundation Trustee; and Gata Maneke, Past Rotary Foundation Trustee.
All commended the districts for their unity, ambition and results-driven approach to giving.
Rotary leaders noted that these achievements are the result of intentional strategy, member engagement and a shared belief in “Uniting for Good.”
District 9214 in particular was recognised for its decision earlier in the year to raise its giving target beyond initial projections, ultimately achieving the $1 million milestone.
Beyond the numbers, leaders emphasised the tangible impact behind the contributions. Funds raised through the Rotary Foundation support critical initiatives in maternal and child health, disease prevention, education and peacebuilding, many of which were showcased during the day’s project visits.
As the night concluded, the atmosphere was one of pride, gratitude and renewed commitment. The Rotary Foundation Recognition Dinner not only celebrated generosity, but reinforced a collective vision for greater impact.
With strong leadership, growing momentum and a deep culture of giving, Rotary in Uganda continues to demonstrate that together, one act at a time, lasting change is possible.