The President of Rotary International, Francesco Arezzo, and his spouse Anna Maria Criscione Arezzo have concluded a landmark two day official working visit to Uganda. The visit underscored the profound impact of Rotary supported initiatives in health, leadership, peacebuilding, youth empowerment, and community development across the country.
Hosted by Rotary Districts 9213 and 9214, the visit highlighted Uganda’s growing contribution to Rotary’s global mission of Service Above Self. The President’s itinerary included visits to high impact projects, partnerships with government and community leaders, engagement with youth leaders, and celebrations of fellowship and Rotary’s expanding membership.
Major Milestone at Kawempe National Referral Hospital
At Kawempe National Referral Hospital, one of Uganda’s busiest maternal and neonatal centres delivering approximately 22,000 babies annually, President Arezzo presided over the launch of two major maternal and child health initiatives.
The first initiative was the introduction of the Oxygen as a Service model under the broader Oxygen for Life programme. This approach ensures a reliable and sustainable supply of medical oxygen, a critical resource for emergency maternal and neonatal care. By strengthening systems rather than simply donating equipment, the programme guarantees ongoing service, maintenance, and long term functionality so that mothers and newborns receive lifesaving support when they need it most.
The second initiative was the launch of the Mama Toto Care Global Grant valued at USD 500,000. This grant will support maternal and child health services in several districts throughout Uganda. It is designed to strengthen health systems in underserved areas, equip facilities with essential maternal and neonatal care equipment, and provide training and mentorship for health workers on safe delivery practices and newborn care. The goal is to reduce preventable maternal and infant deaths while building resilient healthcare systems that continue serving communities into the future.
Uganda’s Minister of Health, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, praised Rotary’s commitment to strengthening health systems.
“Many of you are aware that this facility has the highest production capacity of babies in the country. Uganda adds about 1.5 million babies per year. Having this project here is extremely critical and useful because it comes to save lives so that every mother can walk home with a baby.” President Arezzo emphasized collaboration and shared responsibility. “These are not isolated donor activities. They are partnerships with government, local leaders, health professionals, and communities. When we work together, we strengthen systems, we protect families, and we secure the future.”
Strengthening Specialized Healthcare and Blood Safety
During the visit, President Arezzo toured the Uganda Blood Transfusion Service in Nakasero where Rotary has supported blood collection and storage infrastructure to ensure safe and timely access for patients in need.
“What we are witnessing here is more than equipment. It is hope. It means that a child suffering from severe malaria, a mother facing complications, or any patient in urgent need will have a better chance at life.”
He also visited the Joint Clinical Research Centre Bone Marrow Transplant Centre in Lubowa and described it as a symbol of resilience.
“Bringing curative treatment closer to home reduces financial hardship for families and strengthens Uganda’s healthcare capacity. This is what collaboration between Rotary, government, and partners can achieve.”
Peacebuilding and Youth Leadership
At the Makerere University Rotary Peace Centre, President Arezzo engaged peace fellows and young leaders undergoing advanced training in conflict resolution and community dialogue.
“Peace is not built by institutions alone. It is built by communities. It requires education, economic opportunity, health, and responsible leadership. Rotary is investing in people who will build that peace.” He spoke warmly about the vibrancy of Rotary and Rotaract in Uganda.
“The energy of Rotaract is inspiring. These young leaders are not just the future of Rotary. They are leaders of today. When we involve young people, local government, and community leaders together, transformation becomes sustainable.”
Polio Eradication and Community Outreach
At Jjanyi Health Centre, President Arezzo observed a long standing Rotary supported polio immunisation outreach site. “Rotary’s commitment to eradicating polio shows what is possible when the world unites around a common goal. Uganda’s continued leadership in this effort is deeply encouraging.”
A mega health camp in Kajjansi further demonstrated Rotary’s grassroots impact by bringing essential health services directly to communities. Membership Growth and Philanthropic Leadership
The visit concluded with a Membership Gala Dinner at Speke Resort Munyonyo where sixteen new Rotary clubs were chartered, welcoming more than six hundred new members.
District Governor Geoffrey Martin Kitakule of Rotary District 9213 reflected on the significance of the visit.
“President Arezzo’s presence in Uganda affirms the vibrancy of Rotary in our country. Our strength lies in collaboration with local government, community leaders, private sector partners, and especially our youth. Together we are building healthier and more peaceful communities.”
District Governor Christine Kawooya Kyeyune of Rotary District 9214 highlighted the importance of youth and community engagement.
“We are proud of the work our Rotarians and Rotaractors are doing across Uganda. Their innovation, dedication, and willingness to serve demonstrate that Rotary is strong, relevant, and forward looking.”
During the Rotary Foundation Recognition Dinner, Rotarians celebrated record contributions totaling approximately USD 1.9 million. President Arezzo commended Ugandan Rotarians for their generosity.
“Philanthropy is not measured only in numbers. It is measured in the lives changed. Uganda’s commitment to The Rotary Foundation shows a deep culture of service and shared responsibility.”
About Rotary International
Rotary International unites 1.4 million members across more than 46,000 clubs worldwide dedicated to promoting peace, fighting disease, supporting education, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, and growing local economies. Rotary has been a global leader in the effort to eradicate polio.
In Uganda, Rotary clubs continue to deliver impactful projects that strengthen communities, save lives, and build hope for future generations.