23rd/08/2026 Kampala -Uganda.
The Rotary Foundation’s Major Gifts Initiative for the Community Economic Development (CED) area of focus has received a USD 25,000 commitment, announced during a Major Donors meeting convened by TRF Advisor for the Major Gifts Initiative for CED, PDG Rosetti Nabbumba Nayenga.
The meeting was officiated by Past Trustee Geeta Manek, who reflected on her journey as a “village girl” and how her early experiences shaped her commitment to Rotary and community service. She highlighted several Rotary community economic empowerment initiatives that have created lasting impact, including the Nkondo village project in Uganda, as examples of how strategic investment can transform communities.
Past Trustee Manek also shared the story of the TIPA project in northern Kenya which transformed semi-arid land into a productive community asset, creating opportunities and improving livelihoods, particularly for women and children. She called on Rotarians to work together to strengthen communities and invest in solutions that enable people to build more resilient and dignified lives.
In his keynote address, Trustee Tusu Tusubira described The Rotary Foundation as one of the most trusted stewards of Rotary giving, urging Rotarians to use their contributions to create meaningful and sustainable change. Drawing on the principle of Ubuntu, he reminded participants that giving is not only about transforming the lives of beneficiaries, but also about enriching the lives of those who give.
Trustee Tusu further highlighted the intersection between peace and poverty, noting that economic vulnerability can undermine stability and that meaningful giving should contribute to creating stronger, more resilient and peaceful communities.
The funds raised through the initiative will support efforts to alleviate poverty and create measurable and enduring economic improvements in marginalized communities through three key interventions:
• Building the capacity of local entrepreneurs and social businesses to strengthen economic development in low-income communities.
• Improving access to economic opportunities and services for marginalized communities, enabling them to build resilience to natural disasters and other economic shocks.
• Funding graduate scholarships for career-minded professionals pursuing fields related to Community Economic Development.
The USD 25,000 commitment is an investment in people, livelihoods and resilient communities. Through collective giving and strategic partnerships, Rotary continues to demonstrate how empowering communities economically can create lasting pathways out of poverty and strengthen the foundations for peace and sustainable development.