Speke Resort Munyonyo — Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) Executive Director Dr Chris N. Mukiza has applauded Rotary District 9214 for its sustained culture of philanthropy, evidence-based service, and measurable impact across Uganda and Tanzania.
Speaking as Chief Guest at the 2025 Rotary Foundation Recognition Dinner at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Dr Mukiza said Rotary’s approach to development closely mirrors the core principles that guide UBOS’ national statistical mandate.
“Both UBOS and Rotary rely on evidence-based action, measurable outcomes, and accountability to drive sustainable community impact,” Dr Mukiza said. “High-quality statistics are central to planning and policy—just as every successful Rotary project is grounded in assessment, measurable results, and sustainability.”
He emphasised that statistics play a crucial role in shaping policies that improve livelihoods, whether by tracking poverty levels, health outcomes, education indicators, or population dynamics. “Our work equips government and all stakeholders with the facts and figures needed to design interventions that work for households and communities,” he noted.
Celebrating Philanthropy and Impact
The dinner, themed Celebrating Givers, honoured Rotarians, families, clubs, and partners who have made significant contributions to The Rotary Foundation. Dr Mukiza praised Rotary’s global footprint, noting that “over USD 4 billion invested worldwide” has resulted in transformative outcomes—including the near-eradication of polio.
“Reducing global polio cases by 99.9% and immunising 2.5 billion children is not accidental—it is the result of sustained generosity and disciplined leadership,” he said.
At the district level, he highlighted Rotary’s measurable progress in education, health, water and sanitation, and peacebuilding. “These achievements are not abstract; they are verifiable improvements touching thousands of lives every year,” he added.
Philanthropy is About the Size of the Heart
Dr Mukiza urged Rotarians to sustain the culture of giving, reminding them that the value of philanthropy is rooted in compassion rather than magnitude.
“Philanthropy is not defined by the size of the gift, but by the size of the heart behind it,” he said, echoing Past Trustee Geeta Manek.
He also aligned with Rotary International Director-Elect Emmanuel Katongole’s message: “Our giving today is an investment in future generations and the long arc of development.”
New Education Fund Announced
At the request of the District Governor, Dr Mukiza announced the creation of the Joseph Ndatira Fund for Education and Literacy, reinforcing Rotary’s commitment to long-term human development.
“We are all here because we went to school. Education remains the most powerful tool for overcoming human challenges,” he emphasised.
A Call to Mentor and Inspire
Dr Mukiza encouraged seasoned donors to mentor new members and help build a deeper culture of sustained giving within clubs.
“Giving is not episodic; it is a habit that strengthens communities and deepens our sense of purpose,” he said. “Carry these stories back to your clubs. Inspire others. Unite for good—together, one act at a time.”
He concluded with a message of gratitude and national purpose: “Because of your generosity, District 9214 continues to be a model of service, partnership, and measurable impact. I say all this for God, humanity, and my country.”
The evening closed with celebrations of outstanding contributors, reaffirming Rotary’s mission of Doing Good in the World and advancing community transformation across Uganda and Tanzania.
