KAMPALA, Uganda — Rotary International President Stephanie Urchick arrived in Uganda on Sunday, January 5, 2025, for a highly anticipated week-long visit aimed at inspiring local leadership, fostering peace, and addressing critical community needs.
Her visit, spanning January 5–12, highlights Rotary’s commitment to service and its impact on local and global communities.
A Packed Agenda of Service and Advocacy
President Stephanie’s itinerary includes key activities designed to engage Rotarians and Rotaractors, strengthen Rotary’s presence in Uganda, and address critical issues like water, health, education, and peacebuilding.
The visit commenced with a membership seminar on Monday, January 6, at Next Media Park, titled “A Journey of Rotary Membership: Inspiring Growth in Uganda.” This interactive session brought together Rotary and Rotaract leaders to discuss strategies for boosting membership and driving impactful service projects.
On Tuesday, January 7, President Stephanie will attend the TRF Recognition Dinner at Sheraton Kampala Hotel, celebrating achievements in The Rotary Foundation. The evening will recognise outstanding contributions toward Rotary’s initiatives, with an entry fee of UGX 150,000.
Focus on Clean Water and Health
Wednesday, January 8, marks a major milestone with the launch of the Rotary WASH Institute at Nkumba University. This initiative, spearheaded by Joan Else Kantu, will focus on improving water, sanitation, and hygiene in Uganda.
A Cancer Run Digital Launch will also take place, demonstrating Rotary’s ongoing efforts in the fight against cancer. Later in the evening, President Stephanie will meet with Rotaractors at Hotel Africana to foster youth engagement in Rotary.
Women Empowerment and Peace Advocacy
On Thursday, January 9, the focus shifts to empowering women through a fellowship at Four Points by Sheraton, led by Kimberly Kasana. The event aims to inspire women leaders to take charge of transformative community projects.
The week crescendos on Friday, January 10, with the Peace Symposium and Capstone event at Makerere University. This forum, featuring Dorothy Kyeune of RC Kampala Maisha, will explore innovative solutions to promote peace and address conflict. The day concludes with an Africa Peace Concert at Nsambya Gardens, a vibrant event promoting unity through music.
Promoting Leadership and Service
On Saturday, January 11, the Peace Walk at Makerere University, led by PDG Mike Sebalu, will symbolise Rotary’s commitment to peace and reconciliation. In the afternoon, the Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) ceremony at Kaazi Camping Grounds will empower young leaders with skills for a brighter future.
President Stephanie’s visit is expected to leave an indelible mark on Rotary Districts 9213 and 9214, strengthening partnerships and inspiring a new wave of service projects. Her departure on Sunday, January 12, concludes a memorable week of fellowship and action.
She will also visit Kenya, Senegal, Tunisia, and Egypt before her return to Evanston, USA, at Rotary Headquarters on January 27, 2025.