Rotary Club of Kajjansi: July 2021

Together, let us Serve to Change Lives

Dear Friends & Partners in service, the Rotary year 2021-22 is on and our Rotary International President SHEKHAR MEHTA, is calling us to Serve to Change Lives.

It is upon each one of us to work towards achieving that goal. RI President Mehta says encourages us to live for others, to care for others, to serve others and change their lives as the best way to live our own lives. Just as Albert Einstein said, “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.”

We therefore, need to fasten our belts and work hard to see that the people we are serving in our respective communities are well served and their lives are changed for better. That way we shall be able to live a satisfied life. We can’t do this as individuals but together, we can serve to Change lives.

We thank our partners in service who have sacrificed their resources to advertise in our Installation Magazine. We assure you that the monies you have contributed will be used to facilititate service projects geared at serving to Change lives.

Finally we congratulate President Alex Kamukama and assure him our full support as we Serve to Change Lives

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UMXGyMOK0PZdjxlE_iLtkMLOOVBCipaq/view?usp=sharing

WE HAVE THE POWER AND THE MAGIC TO SERVE TO CHANGE LIVES

As we all serve, we change the lives of not only others; we change our lives, too. Vivekananda, one of India’s greatest philosophers, said, “When you help someone, do not think that you are obliging him or her. In fact, it is he or she who is obliging you by giving you an opportunity to give back something to this world from where we have received so much.” Also, he added beautifully, “In life, take the position of the donor or the server, and yet be so humble in giving and serving that let the donor or server kneel down and ask: ‘May I give? May I serve?’ ”

Friends, to live for others, to care for others, to serve others and change their lives is the best way to live our own lives. Just as Albert Einstein said, “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile.”

And friends, as we go about our service initiatives, our special focus this year will be on empowering girls. One of Rotary’s core values is diversity. We have a public statement that outlines our belief in DEI — diversity, equity, and inclusion. It is important that we empower the girl as we all find that more often than not, the girl is disadvantaged. We will serve all children, but our focus will be specially on the girl. There are many issues that girls face in different parts of the world, and you as leaders will ensure that we try and mitigate the disadvantage of the girl that they may have.

Friends, to do more and grow more, we have designed some presidential initiatives.

There will be seven presidential conferences across the world focusing on the seven areas of focus. And for every Rotary and Rotaract club to be able to organize and engage Rotarians and Rotaractors, and the public at large, we will have Rotary Days of Service. Do participate in the presidential conference closest to home, and do encourage every club to participate in a Rotary Day of Service. Let them join Rotaractors and Interactors. Let us showcase our work the world over through thousands of Rotary Days of Service by Rotary clubs.

Dear change-maker governors, ending polio, fighting COVID, working on large impactful projects, and increasing our membership to a never-before 1.3 million — the task ahead is challenging. And that should excite you. Rotarians love challenges. A ship is safe in the harbor, but that is not what ships are meant for. They need to go out in the high seas. Life, my dear change-makers, is about adventure and not maintenance.

Let me end with what I have penned for our theme:

The biggest gift we are given

Is the power to touch a life

To change,

To make a difference

In the circle of life.

If we can reach out

With our hands, heart, and soul

The magic will begin to happen

As the wheel begins to roll ...

Let’s turn the wheel together

So all humanity thrives

We have the power and the magic

To serve ... to change lives ...

At this moment, I urge you, wherever you are seated, to put your hand on your heart and pledge with me:

So, my dear change-makers, are you ready? Are you ready for the big challenges? Are you ready to serve? Are you ready to change lives?

I am, and I’m sure you are too. Together, let us Serve to Change Lives.

As We Embark on Our Journey as a New District

District Governor’s Message

Young Kimaro

District Governor Elect

Warmest greetings to you from the cool slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. As we ring in the new Rotary year, I wish your club all the best. May your selfless dedication and commitment to service, the very core of what makes Rotary great, continue to shine and change lives.

Please remember always that the entire District Team is there to support you, work with you to achieve your goals. Let us join hands and dare each other to reach beyond our own expectations.

A New beginning" Rotary District 9214 is born

As we plan to increase our impact, we should not forget the Rotary Foundation which had been our main source of funding for Global Grant projects. It increased project funding clubs had at hand by multiples of 8-10. But as the speed at which we utilized those funds far outpaced our contributions to it, its coffers are nearing depletion. We must redouble our efforts to contribute to TRF to put the World Fund back on firm recovery path and growth.

Grow more to do more to change lives, RIPE Shekar bids us. Grow more with people of right calibre for Rotary - people of integrity, commitment, empathy, caring and good will. Look around you. People of such calibre may be within your easy reach. Don’t ignore the power of asking. Share your Rotary story and invite. Once inside the door, involve the newcomer in service activities. Once inducted, give the new Rotarian club assignments, however small. That will give the new member a sense of being valued, that they belong.

Here is a challenge for the year - enhance your members’ Rotary experience. Make every meeting, fellowship or service engaging and meaningful that they will be eager for more. That will rob the revolving door of the power to revolve so that your members will be for keeps.

To all committed and able Rotarians, especially the young and energetic, I invite you to volunteer to serve as cadets on District Committees. Embrace this opportunity to deepen your roots and grow in Rotary.

Take advantage of the virtual reality that was forced on us by COVID. Use it to connect with the world. Invite clubs from across districts/countries/continents to your fellowships. Participate in

training and Rotary events and invite great Rotary speakers from anywhere around the world. Possibilities are endless, limited only by our imagination.

Lastly, let us promote teamwork. share ideas, and invite divergent views to stimulate each other. From that pot of ideas will rise

“Collective Genius,” brilliant and innovative ideas that none of us could have arrived at alone.

Wish you all a wonderful year of growth, inner peace and happiness in service in Rotary.

The Remarks of The Chief Guest

The Top Leadership of Rotary, The Club President Rtn Annet Nannyonjo, President Elect Rtn Alex Kamukama, Ladies and Gentlemen

It gives me pleasure to be part of this auspicious 19th Installation of The Rotary Club of Kajjansi. Thank you President Annet for the invitation.

Had it not been for the restrictions of assembly because of the Covid 19 Pandemic, I would surely be with you physically.

Nevertheless, let us be thankful to God for the technological innovations that enable us reach out to one another as we are doing right now.

I can vouch for them as born leaders.

Am particularly happy that both the outgoing and the incoming Presidents are personal friends whom I met way back.

President Anet,

Let me congratulate you upon serving your term and accepting to hand over to your successor

Am informed that in Rotary, you choose your leaders well in advance to allow smooth transition.

I met Alex in 1990 when he was dating my friend Rhona his wife.

I have known him as an innovative and inspirational leader. Whatever he pursues, he achieves.

Let me also congratulate the members of The Rotary Club of Kajansi for choosing Rtn. Alex Kamukama as your next leader.

You people of good will, who serve above self to improve the lives of less privileged people of the world I salute you!

Allow me to appreciate the Rotary fraternity starting with your Club.

Am confident that Rtn Alex will inspire the Team he will lead and without doubt your club will celebrate at the end of the Rotary year.

Among others

Am informed of the monthly Immunisation you carry out to prevent Ugandan Children from contracting the deadly diseases.

The Schools and Technical institutes you have built to impart skills to the young ones.

The entrepreneurship programmes you are running for the youth through Vijana Poa initiative.

At the District level, we as Ugandans, shall for ever be appreciative of the Rotarians contribution in putting up the Blood Bank at Mengo, The Cancer Ward at Nsambya, the Many trees you have planted to save the Environment among others

Rotary as a global service organisation, you have supported the eradication of Polio from the face of the world. Thank you so much.

At the heart of these community improvement programs is capable leadership.

We, at Citibank as a global Bank, we have also been supportive to the communities of the world.

Through Citi Foundation we work for Economic Empowerment and Financial inclusion of low to moderate income people.

We work with Non Profit Organizations like yours to facilitate Enterprise development, Youth Education and Livelihoods among others

Leadership that builds and sustains relationships....that comes with trust and having a sense of reliability.

Leadership that inspires Teams, mobilizes resources and accounts for those resources.

Leadership that never leaves anyone behind.

Authentic leadership promotes simplicity and inclusiveness

It is this kind of leadership that I recommend to you My Brother Alex and your Team.

Citi Bank Uganda pledges to work with your Club in the Economic and Community Development area of Focus. Particularly in the Enterprise Development for the youth.

I will ask my Team to coach and mentor the Entrepreneur Youth your Club is supporting.

Together we shall have served members of our communities that are less privileged, we shall have put smiles on the faces of the beneficiaries and indeed we shall have SERVED TO CHANGE LIVES as the Rotary theme for this year states.

Thank you all.

Outgoing President’s Report

Dear friends in service, I am overjoyed yet humbled as I join the long list of remarkable past presidents of our club. The year started in a rather confusing and nearly pessimistic state when everyone was still figuring out how best virtual situations can work. Apparently, it appeared like no project would happen and no funds could be raised as many of us were home in the lockdown! My feelings are elevated, and I have a big cause to appreciate all members for the enormous support you have rendered in making my presidency worth remembering. It is amazing how time flies and perplexing how Rotarians exhibit selflessness even at the seemingly hopeless situation.

This memorable journey was initiated by Past President Flavia who approached me persuading me to be a President. It was indeed persuasion because I did not have it as one of my ambitions or targets. I want to thank her for identifying potential in me and the whole club for accepting me to be their leader. In Rotary you lead leaders! This experience means a lot to me and those close to me.

I want to thank my employer Taibah International school for giving me an enabling environment and all support; emotional, financial and time.

Truthfully, whatever has been achieved was the effort of the club members but in a special way I am grateful to the Board for the leadership exhibited which has enabled us to achieve much. In summary we have been able to achieve the following.

TRF

This was my priority as soon as I accepted presidency. I am pleased that we have delivered the club to a 100% PHF status, acquired a second Major Donor-Dr. Johnson Byabashaija, and contributed 24,000 dollars to the different RI grants; Polio, The Annual Fund and WASH. All members of the club contributed something! We have celebrated 20 new PHF, 1 PHF+4 OP Annet, 1 PHF+3 DES Juliet, 2 PHF+2 AG Ismael and Dr. John, and 4PHF+1 IPP Flavia, TRF Director Loy, William Ezama and Asiimwe. We also have 2 non-Rotarian PHFs!

Our Award at the District Conference was no accident. We have also been able to utilize Global Grants for the first time in history. I am greatly indebted to DES Juliet Kyokunda for steering applications for Global Grant. The club received 89,000 Dollars for the Buikwe project and 49,999 Dollars for Nakigalala. We had another Global Grant approval of 38,882 Dollars.

SERVICE PROJECTS

We have not been a social club, but a true Rotary Club if the common saying of Rotary is defined by projects is to go by. We have laid a foundation for a Girls’ Dormitory at Buikwe upon which the next president will proceed. This cost approximately 25 million of which members contributed 7,338,000, 4,300,000 obtained from Magazine adverts, 5,000,000 diverted from the Katwe Bweya Project, 8,800,000 from DES Juliet (balance from another project) Thank you to Taibah International school-1 million, Haven Education Centre-500,000, ATOM outdoor Advertisement -500,000, Good Price Hardware- 500,000, Doctors’ Hospital Segukku – 500,000,Axis Cars 500,000, HUB Construction and Tatli Mushrooms 300,000, 500,000 Real Business oan -Rotarian Don.

In the same Institute, we have constructed a strong Workshop for Carpentry, Tailoring and other Vocational subjects using the Global Grant funds received. In addition, Computers and other equipment for study have been procured.

Our signature project the Car boot sale could not happen physically due to Covid, but we have been able to raise 1,250,000 shillings through member support. I am pleased to report that the beneficiaries are in school.

With Mission Green, we have been able to plant fruit trees in Akright City and the planting will continue into the next year. We have also planted 10,000 seedlings in Kasanje and supervised the growth of what had already been put.

Our Jjanyi immunization drive has been conducted religious and I am indebted to Rotarian Uniah PHF for the commitment and consistence in making it a big success. Over 1,500 children have enjoyed the service.

The club through its partnership with Water for People has been able to distribute1,300 SATO pans in different parts of the country to improve hygiene in homes.

In addition, we have erected a hand washing tank at St. Gyaviira Lweza Primary school as a contribution towards fighting the pandemic but also for general hygiene having realized that pupils were walking direct to class after using the latrines without washing their hands.

We have been able to mobilize clubs on the Entebbe Road corridor to a blood donation drive where five Rotary Clubs and four Rotaract Clubs participated at different places. Back home, we were able to collect 92 units of blood to save lives.

The club also participated in the Tree planting drive in Omungari which was organized by DGN Peace. Some members were physically present, and others made financial contributions to a tune of 1,000,000.

Our Club was among the many that embraced the Virtual Cancer Run. Thank you to Rotarian Rittah Nakasaawe for coordinating the activities, DGN Peace who was our Chief Walker and PE Alex who hosted us to a sumptuous breakfast after the Walk.

In the Vocational month, we were able to recognise one person that delivered exemplified service to his community especially in the area of Water provision. Congratulations to retired engineer Deogratius Mukasa Mpotwa.

FAN

This has been the focus of our District Governor. Her passion has been to ensure Rotarians are healthy so that they serve others better. She thus came up with Fitness and Nutrition encouraging Rotarians to eat healthy meals and do exercise. This campaign has been led by PAG Mebra. I am pleased to report that our club had three FAN fellowships: one at Nican Resort and two in Akright. I encourage members to carry on with this theme for better health and wealth.

Membership

The club has grown from 52 members at the beginning of the Rotary year to 57 active members. We have 33 males and 24 females. Our average age has also improved because most of the inducted members are below 40. Unfortunately, one of our members Frank Twinamatsiko went to be with the Lord following a fatal accident he had at the Mutungo - Kitiko junction. May his soul rest in peace.

We have been able to induct Six new members: James Wakoko, Evelyn Nabibubbu, Moses Mugumya Martin Mugarura, Lydia Matte and Dr. Edward Sekawojwa. Their zeal to serve is already captivating. Our desire to have two honorary members hit a snag as one of them was out of the country and the other narrowly missed when he forgot the day for his recognition. We hope to bring them on board in the next year.

We are a diverse club by all measures. We have different classifications, religious affiliations, tribal diversity, age and talent. We however still need to induct an Engineer now that we got a Lawyer.

The club has continued to attract potential guests and maintained the induction procedures. This is aimed at ensuring we induct only people that are serious and passionate about Rotary.

Member engagement in club activities is commendable as most pooled resources including time to ensure that our activities run smoothly.

We have stood as a family in all matters concerning our members. I am grateful for all the financial support members have rendered our bereaved friends, their presence at burials and comforting messages shared. We have also graced happy moments together.

With membership extension, the Rotary Club of Akright City in- formation was inaugurated and we are optimistic it will be chartered in 2021/2022. Fellowships are happening every Sunday 7 to 8 pm and the zeal of the incoming Membership Director is very convincing.

To consolidate our membership, we have had several social events and one big home hospitality. Thank you to Rotarians Anita and Nixon Kakeeto for hosting us. Other members who hosted the club include Rotarians Charles and Theresa Baganja, PP Enid, PHF Barbara Kawere, OP Annet, PE Alex Kamukama aand Isaac Muchunguzi.

The Club is recognized at the District and this is justified by the number of members serving beyond the Club. This year, we have been represented by the District Executive Secretary Juliet Kyokunda PHF 3, District Governor Nominee MD Peace, Assistant Governor Ismael Mukasa PHF 2, Cancer Run Coordinator Rittah Nakasaawe PHF 1. Others have also been identified to serve in the next year. Congratulations to PP Charles Magala PHF on your appointment as AG, IPP Joyce Magala PHF+1 on joining the WASH team, PE Alex Kamukama on your appointment as the Vijana Poa Chair, Rittah Nakasaawe PHF on ascending to Youth Representation. No doubt, other appointments are coming to Kajjansi.

Club Administration

At the beginning of the year, members were organized into Buddy groups which also doubled as Comittees through which all activities have been organized and implemented. Each group has worked tirelessly, and healthy competition was very visible which has helped us to remain an adorable club. Congratulations to the Membership committee under the leadership of Rotarian Mary Kasirye on standing out as the best Buddy group of the year.

We have attracted wonderful guest speakers ranging from Past District Governors to friends of Rotary. Among the special guests were, PDG Steven Mwanje, PDG Xavier Sentamu, PDG Shamillah Bhatt PDG Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa, DGN Michael Sebalu, PAG James Nkooka, PAG James Galabuzi, DES Juliet Kyokunda,PP Tina Nakibuuka, PP Jude Kaliisa, IPP Jude, WASH Manager Henry Kakooza, Dr. Hanifa Namala Ssebaggala, Andrew Edmund Maviiri and many others.

The Club had an informative and inspiring training with formidable trainers. Thank you to IPP Joyce the Club Trainer and Rotarian Mary Kasirye for the arrangement.

We have been able to celebrate our annual days in a very befitting way. The Family Day and Gift exchange was very well organized and celebrated. Thank you to Family of Rotary Officer Loritah Asiimwe, Evelyn Nabibubbu, James Wakoko and Rittah Nakasaawe for the arrangements. The Charter Night was also a memorable event. Thank you to Charter Chair Flavia for the organization and all members for the contributions. This event was graced by PDG Kawalya.

The annual club retreat was also held, and a SWOT analysis of the club conducted. Good plans were shared, and a lot of beneficial ideas shared. Thank you to Rotarian Onyango PHF for hosting us and PE Alex for the organisation.

The Family of Rotary Officer has been very instrumental in recognizing and celebrating special days of our members; birthdays, anniversaries and our candidates received customized success cards from the club.

Youth Services

We have worked very well with our youth although the year had challenge of COVID which made activities of institutional clubs almost impossible.

Four of our members have attained a duo membership status. Congratulations to Rotarians Alex Kamukama, Rittah Nakasaawe, Ismael Mukasa and Isaac Muchunguzi for the step taken.

Members of the club have at a personal level supported Rotaract projects and helped in meeting some financial obligations to keep our clubs alive.

We were able to send our Youth to RYLA as planned. A total of Six was sponsored.

Our Youth had several opportunities to fellowship with us and we enjoyed a home hospitality together. Thank you to Rotarian Isaac the Youth services director for hosting the clubs. They were also given an opportunity to take over mother club. The Rotaract club of Kajjansi led fellowship on 5/5/21 and it was a wonderful evening. Thank you to Rotaractor Ambition for the wonderful talk.

A relationship with the Youth in Akright City was also initiated when PE Alex Kamukama bought for them a training Kit and I as President bought for them a quality ball to enhance their Football training. This relationship is also aimed at promoting peace in the community. Young unemployed persons can be a big threat is unattended to.

We have tried hard to persuade our youth to contribute to the Rotary Fund, but this has not yet yield. A start up of 20 Dollars was given to them to stimulate interest with a promise to march their contributions but they have failed to utilize it.

Public Relations.

We have been very visible at all functions that brought Rotarians together; The District Conference, The Zone Institute, Cancer Run mention it. Our PR Director Rittah Nakasaawe has been keen on making us visible.

Our social media has been very active and updated regularly. Twitter (https://twitter.com/RKajjansi), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/RotaryClubOfKajjansi) and the blog (http://rotaryclubofkajjansi.blogspot.com) have all been working and updated regularly. Thank you to Mr. Sebuliba Hannington for a job well done.

We have been consistent with our monthly Bulletin the Brick where a lot of information has been shared and many Educative articles written by members. Thank you to Rotarian Delphine Mugisha PHF for the mobilization.

We have communicated all Club events to whoever had to know by publishing beautiful fliers. All fellowships had a flier, Jjanyi immunization, Club Assemblies and others.

Our Home coming Fellowship for DGE Peace was another Public Relations event as it brought together members of different Clubs and we were honored to host the DG Young Kimaro. What an opportunity to be among the first clubs she has visited as she prepares to start her journey as District Head.

I owe all achievements to the wonderful board that I have worked with and take all responsibility for things than did not go well, it means I did not listen well.

Once again, I thank all members for the cooperation, but most importantly for giving me the opportunity to be their leader. Rotary, service above self!

Annet Nannyonjo

President

RC KAJJANSI

The Kamukama I know

By DGN Peace Taremwa a brother

I remember the Kajjansi I found in 2007. I remember where we have come from, I remember how we could have stepped on a few toes, though long gone, as we made our club rise to today’s levels. Iam so glad that each of the Presidents has put a brick until today. Our structured systems have made us produce leaders beyond the club every other year to the level of producing a Governor. Given another chance to choose a club to join, I would choose RC Kajjansi.

Before I turn to talk about incoming President Alex, allow me extend my heartfelt, deep seated, strongest appreciation to our Opportunity President Annet for taking us to the TOP LEVEL (Kuntiko) IN GIVING as we clocked 18 years in service. We shall remember and appreciate that we achieved an all giving and 100% PHF club during her year as President and pray that this level is never diluted, save for becoming an ALL Major Donors Club. We have an earned brand and it is therefore deserving that anyone who believes that s/he can be part of it, the doors are open.

When I joined S1, Alex was at school and as my elder brother, he received me and somehow I never left his cubicle for fear of bullying which was common in the school. This kept on till almost half term when I was brave enough to start school Life. I have since known that as a leader, I have the responsibility of looking after those who look up to me. In my new found life and as part of bullying, we were taught dancing WALTZ in preparation for the visit of Nyakibale Immaculate girls and somehow, Alex and I became starts whenever there was a dance in the village during holidays. We always danced by ourselves since the girls of the day, in our village. would not match our strokes.

During one long easter holiday, he asked to take me to see where we hail from deep down in Ntungamo district and surprisingly, we were supposed to walk there and little did I know that it was in tens of kilometres ! Together with Hannington, (MHSRIP) we walked from Kitunga and the first night, we stayed at Nyakihanga (Flavias mum prepared a befitting meal). We later visted itojo (Grandfather slaughtered a goat), mugono (Grandmother slaughtered another goat) and finally nyarubumba with two more goats on the way. He showed me where my great grandfather was laid to rest. Following in his footsteps, I either try to show my children or provide an environment where they can meet many of our relatives.

Fast way forward, Alex becomes the accountant and Manager with Coffee marketing board and the best fell on us (netugwa mubintu) as a family especially to those who were younger. He took on the responsibility of bridging any welfare gaps for them and wanted them to enjoy good life. He invited them to UK for further studies. He now bought different cars we could now drive and pose around with. I also have fond memories when, on the way for Christmas, he carried me on the pickup and before Masaka, I was ready for hospital. I was promoted to sit in the front cabin ! When he returned from his Masters degree, his childhood friend asked me to convince him to join him to take the Akright dream further. The rest is history as we can see the level of an organised environment in our Akright city, enviable to many. He has taught me the value of friendship.

In his continued effort to make me friendly and to also avail me an opportunity to contribute to my neighbourhood, he supported the idea of choosing me to take the lead during the fundraiser for our almost UGX 2bn church at St. Mark in Akright. Iam glad that this has made history as the community has completed this project in just over one year. I trust that the projects that Rotary Kajjansi is handling have a tested and trusted leader, BRAINS, HANDS AND ENERGY ON.

Short of making this a eurology, I now decide to court Alex into Rotary. He first informed me that he had seen this Rotary before but never had time to join. I ignored his past sentiments and concentrate about the present. We moved together for our monthly project at Jannyi immunization where we attend to almost 200 chlidren every month and later we passed by Katwe Bweya primary school. Alex couldn’t imagine this was happening a few kms from kampala city. I was later humbled by his efforts and time at Katwe bweya as he supervised construction of those classroom blocks.

When I invited him to Dar e salaam for the District Conference and Assembly (DCA) he asked me what it takes. After the explanation, he said he was now wondering how a Rotarian would travel to a DCA when s/he is not a PHF. He opted to pay for his PHF pin. He organized a youth team in Akright and just after the Rotary country retreat I had hosted, he interested Governor Bob to visit them. His love for the youth has made him loved by the brains behind this cause. It is no surprise that he is on the board of Vijana Poa. His ability to make good and strategic friends made him follow up and deliver a quality brand of Rotarians into our club. His YES or YES attitude has made him a Rotarian worth being supported. His rise to being a President of this club was very visible.

To you Alex and team, I wish you the best as you serve to change lives.

President Alex Kamukama's Acceptance Speech

Fellow Rotarians and friends,

It has been a tradition at RC Kajjansi to change leadership on the last Saturday of June. The tradition is being fulfilled today. We thank God.

I was greatly honored and humbled when PP Joyce Magala chose me as a Club Admin/President Nominee designate in the connecting year 2017/2018 despite having joined Rotary only in December 2014. Subsequently, at the Club Assembly, Rotarians of Kajjansi endorsed my appointment. It has been a roller coaster seven (7) years of Rotary service. I believe you have prepared me well for the task ahead given the different Club offices I have been taken through. I accept the responsibility of being the 19th President of the Rotary Club of Kajjansi with humility and pledge to perform to the best of my ability.

I am profoundly grateful to the founding Rotarians of this Club and the Past Presidents who built a firm foundation upon which we are building a strong and vibrant Club. I am equally thankful to Rtn Peace Taremwa my sponsor. When I joined Rotary, I was looking for an opportunity to network and also serve communities particularly in the areas of basic education, youth empowerment and disease prevention. I am satisfied that I have harvested more than I anticipated. I have enjoyed fun and social support, I have expanded friendship etc.

My family members have since joined Rotary a testimony that my joining Rotary must have shown them the beauty that there is in Rotary. My wife, Rtn Rhona Kamukama Phf joined Rotary Club of Lubowa, first born Rtn Ivan Kakama Phf is a member of Rotary Club of Najjera, while Victor Kamukama is in the interact club of Ntare school.

Let me extend my appreciation to my mentor PAG Charles Byanyima and all Club leaders for grounding me in Rotary. In the Rotary theme year of, “Be a gift to the world”, President Juliet Kyokunda assigned me a responsibility to start a community Roteract Club as well as spearhead the Rotary Vijana POA initiative. By the end of the Rotary year, the Club awarded me The Rotarian of the year as testimony that I had delivered on my assignments. I will forever be grateful for the experience I attained as a result of the Club support.

“Serving humanity” was the theme for the Rotary year 2016/2017 when President Ismail Mukasa appointed me on the Board to chair the youth committee. We served humanity to the satisfaction of the Club and in the following year 2017/2018 when the theme was “making a difference”, President Apollo Akankunda re-appointed me in the same docket to make a difference.

And Yes, We did!

President Flavia Mujurizi serving under the Rotary theme “Be the inspiration” appointed me Chair membership committee in the year 2018/19. My team was so inspired that we recruited ten (10) new Rotarians and for the first time, Club membership crossed the figure 50.

In the theme year of “Rotary connects the world”, President Joyce thought it wise to appoint me as Club admin a position that exposed me to how a Club is run ranging from; inspiring buddy groups, connecting club officers etc.

Am currently serving as a Club Secretary under the wise leadership of Opportunity President Annet Nannyonjo. Notwithstanding the challenges of covid19 pandemic, we have used all the available opportunities to deliver as a team to the extent that the Club scooped awards at the 96th DCA.

Congratulations RC Kajjansi for a wonderful year of service!

Therefore, I stand here as a fully grounded Rotarian ready to “Serve to change lives”.

I thank all our partners in service for the support they have given to the club over the years. We are very grateful, but like Oliver Twist, “we shall ask for more”. I congratulate the Club upon producing many Club members serving beyond the Club e.g. Assistant Governors, District Executive Secretary Rtn Juliet Kyokunda and more significantly District Governor Rtn Peace Taremwa. It is indeed a great honour to us as a Club, but it comes with the challenges of expectations, which we have to live up to.

Many leaders in Rotary have described RC Kajjansi as a model Club that will inspire other Clubs in the new Rotary District 9214. This is no mean fete!

We pledge to match the challenge.

The CHANGE MAKER BOARD that I proposed to the Club and was endorsed at the Club assembly has already gone through a Strategic Planning Session, they came up with a Work Plan and Budget that were both approved at a Club Retreat.

The BOARD of 6 gentlemen and 7 Ladies listed herebelow is set to SERVE until it hurts!

Rtn Alex Kamukama President

Rtn Theresa Baganja Vice President

Rtn Rose Nakafu Secretary/President Elect.

Rtn Godfrey Tenywa Club Administrator/ President Nominee

Rtn Annet Nannyonjo Club Trainer

Rtn Nicholas Kibuuka Treasurer

Rtn Loy Kaliisa Assistant Treasurer

Rtn Amos Aine Director Membership

Rtn Rita Nakasawe Service Projects

Rtn Hassan Muyanja Director TRF

Rtn Mary Kasirye Director M/E

Rtn Robert Onyango Director Youth Services

Rtn Delphine Mugisha Director Public Relations

Other Rotarians were assigned different roles and I have no doubt in my mind that they are equally prepared to serve to change lives.

Under Club Administration: We intend to hold both virtual and physical meetings whenever circumstances will allow. Buddy groups have already been formed to spice up informative and lively fellowships. We shall maintain the high level of stewardship well known for our Club.

Under Membership: We are starting a Rotary Club of Akright City. We shall improve the quality and numbers of our membership and strive to achieve a diversity of race and classifications.

In Leadership Development: We shall continue our leadership development program through mentorship and through Rotary Leadership Institute in order to empower and inspire our members to serve beyond the Club.

We intend to propose to the strategic planning team that RC Kajjansi will be sponsoring a candidate for District Governor every three years as well as availing an Assistant Governor every single Rotary year.

Under Service Projects: We shall strengthen existing humanitarian projects and in addition, apply and utilize Global grants on joint projects with our friendly Entebbe Corridor Clubs.

In Supporting the Rotary Foundation: We shall continue to contribute to the Foundation and to utilize Foundation funds. Given the covid19 pandemic challenges, we may remain at the $ 20,000 target of giving. $ 200,000 target of Utilization.

Under Youth Services: We shall support our community based Rotaract Club of Kajjansi as well as the institutional based Rotaract Club of UNIK. They will be sponsored for RYLA, we shall engage with them in the humanitarian service projects. All our 3 interact Clubs shall be supported.

Promoting Public Image: We shall enhance the image of Rotary within and beyond the Club through our monthly magazine, social media handles, print and media channels.

To the Club Officials: In carrying out your duties, I implore you to;

Innovate: Find new and interesting ways to achieve our objectives.

Inquire, who can we learn from? What can we do better?

Inspire, members to participate in Club activities and change lives.

Thank you Ms. Sarah Arapta CEO Citi Bank Uganda for accepting our invitation to preside over this event as the Guest of Honour, we also appreciate the good work you are doing in the Banking Industry to improve the lives of disadvantaged people in our society.

Thank you Owekitibwa PDG Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa for accepting to perform the Installation Ceremony of the 19th President of the RC Kajjansi.

To all our guests for gracing this event, I thank you.

My wife Rhona, children, siblings and friends, I thank you for the moral support. A special word of thanks goes to the Installation Committee headed by Past President Jude Kaliisa.

LET US SERVE TO CHANGE LIVES.