“Our focus will be on projects that address real community needs. We intend to achieve this by actively applying for Rotary International global grants and building partnerships with like-minded organisations around the world,” she said.
By Victoria Bugembe Nampala
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of International Cooperation, Henry Oryem Okello, has praised the Rotary Club of Kampala-Munyonyo for complementing government efforts through community service initiatives across the country.
Okello said Rotary continues to play a vital role in supporting government programs in areas such as water and sanitation, maternal and child health, education, literacy, environmental protection, disease prevention, peacebuilding and community empowerment.
“Rotary is a valuable government partner through its voluntary and impactful service to communities, which undoubtedly complements our efforts,” he said.
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He added that government appreciates Rotary’s contribution because of its non-partisan approach, structured service delivery system and strong accountability mechanisms, describing the organisation as a dependable partner in community development.
The minister made the remarks during the installation ceremony of Connie Nuwagaba as the 10th president of the Rotary Club of Najjera at Sheraton Hotel Kampala.
Okello pledged to strengthen collaboration between Rotary clubs and government institutions, saying such partnerships could improve implementation of development projects in communities.
“Rotary is a well-organised entity with a proven track record in accountability. We are exploring ways of linking this network to government projects for more effective service delivery,” he noted.
Nuwagaba officially took over leadership from Irene Mwoyogwona, the Head of Finance at Pride Microfinance Limited.
The installation ceremony was presided over by Past District Governor Kenneth Mugisha. Other Past District Governors in attendance included Stephen Mwanje, Ann Nkutu and Mike Ssebalu.
Okello also commended the outgoing president for her contribution to improving livelihoods, particularly in the education sector, expressing confidence that the incoming leadership would expand the club’s impact.
In a major announcement during the event, the minister pledged to facilitate 10 annual scholarships for Rotarians to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in China under the Foreign Affairs scholarship program.
According to Okello, the scholarships will focus on fields such as international relations, tourism and technology to equip beneficiaries with skills that can contribute to national and global development.
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In her acceptance speech, Nuwagaba described herself as a passionate Rotarian dedicated to service, growth and community impact.
She pledged to strengthen the club’s outreach by prioritising sustainable and life-changing community projects.
“Our focus will be on projects that address real community needs. We intend to achieve this by actively applying for Rotary International global grants and building partnerships with like-minded organisations around the world,” she said.
Nuwagaba emphasized the importance of innovation and collaboration in advancing Rotary’s mission, expressing optimism that strategic partnerships and funding opportunities would help the club expand its interventions and transform more lives.